concerts across Hilton Head Island. He also starred in “Come Away Home,” the first motion picture to be filmed on the island. In 1995, Russell, along with his wife, Linda, founded Hilton Head Heroes. This non-profit organization allows the families of children with life-threatening illnesses to enjoy an unbelievable vacation on Hilton Head. On an island so quick to reach out and give to others, Russell is no exception. Whether entertaining children and adults under the Liberty Oak, on the high seas or on the silver screen, or just giving a hand to those in need, Russell is truly an island icon. The Stoney-Baynard Ruins Set back in the trees on an unassuming stretch of road in Sea Pines sits the Stoney-Baynard Ruins, a remarkable piece of Hilton Head history and a truly unique landmark for visitors to explore. Built of tabby, a mixture of oyster shells, lime and sand, the Stoney-Baynard Ruins have stood on Hilton Head since before the Civil War. Historical records indicate that the ruins were originally a plantation house erected by James Stoney shortly before his death in 1827. In 1845, Stoney’s land, a tract totaling some 1,200 acres, was purchased by William E. Baynard, and it stayed in his family until the Civil War hit Hilton Head in the form of the Battle of Port Royal, still the largest sea battle ever on the East Coast. Baynard’s son, the owner of the plantation, fled, and the plantation house soon became home to Union troops during their occupation. Historical records are sketchy as to the eventual fate of the plantation Gregg Russell SeaPines50thAnniversary.com | SeaPinesHomesAndVillas.com 43 South Beach Marina Of Sea Pines’ seaside villages, Harbour Town may get all the attention, but, for family fun, worldclass cuisine and the opportunity to shop ‘til you drop, South Beach Marina is the place to be. Say “hi” to the friendly parrots outside The Wreck of the Salty Dog as you trod the boardwalk in this New England-style marina village. If you’re hungry, there’s no shortage of great restaurants offering dining from upscale to kid-friendly cuisine. But the main draw of South Beach Marina is the activities. Looking to snag a marlin? The South Beach fleet takes anglers out daily to brave the waves in search of the next big catch. Commander Zodiac offers dolphin watching tours or journeys through Calibogue Sound. Or rent a kayak, go parasailing or jet skiing or just take a sailboat out on the seas: there’s no shortage of fun to be had. A True Islander Every summer, Gregg Russell does what he’s done summer nights for the last 30 years--he entertains appreciative audiences with his signature sound and kid-friendly performances. So head on over to Liberty Oak and enjoy the show. Whether he’s engaging kids in a sing-along, performing one of his own hits or leading his audience in his famous “bubblegum pledge,” Russell inspires laughter and applause with each show. In addition to his nightly shows, Russell also conducts “Fun for Kids,” a nationally honored summer day camp that lets kids explore the island through recreation, sports and more. He also leads Friday morning Bubblegum Cruises that combine his signature shows with dolphin watching aboard the Vagabond cruise ship. In addition to his shows in Sea Pines, Russell also runs a production company that promotes events and Above: Beautiful South Beach Marina and one of the friendly parrots from outside The Wreck of the Salty Dog.
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