Kiawah Island History
Lovely Kiawah Island is named after the native Indians that once inhabited the area. In 1670, it was, Cassique, the Chief of the Kiawah Indians, that welcomed English colonists, and lead them to settle at Charlestowne Landing. By the 1700s control of Kiawah Island was taken by the English; it changed hands many times and was used as farm, plantation and played a role in history over and over with fortificational barriers to the Kiawah and Stono Rivers. For many years thereafter Kiawah remained run as plantation, changing crop from indigo to cotton and raising cattle. In the 1970s, the island was purchased and master planned for development with the intent to maintain the vibrant natural environment. Throughout the 70s and 80s world renouned golf courses were designed by famous golfing celebrities, and areas were opened for residential land sales. Ever carefully designed, always with caution toward environmental change, Kiawah evolved into the beautiful luxury resort area that it is today.
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