Tucked along Georgia’s beautiful southeastern coast, Kingsland and the surrounding Camden County are more than just postcard-perfect views of rivers and marshlands — it’s a place where the past feels close enough to touch. From the charming historic streets of St. Marys to the heart of Kingsland, where the old railroad helped fuel a growing town, this area is filled with stories waiting to be discovered. Historical markers aren’t just roadside signs—they’re little windows into the lives, struggles and triumphs that shaped our corner of the South. You’ll find war stories, early plantations, churches that have stood for centuries, and even legends of a famous fugitive or two. Whether you’re strolling through downtown Kingsland, wandering the waterfront in St. Marys, or taking the scenic route up US 17, this self-paced road trip of our local historical markers is a perfect way to connect with the history that made us who we are.
1. Spanish Occupation of Georgia
Osborne & Dillingham Streets, St. Marys (30.7261, -81.5472)
Uncover the lesser-known story of Spanish colonization in this part of Georgia prior to British settlement. A glimpse into an earlier chapter of regional influence and conflict.
2. City of St. Marys
Osborne & Dillingham Streets, St. Marys (30.7261, -81.5472)
Discover the origins of what is often touted as Georgia’s second-oldest city, founded in the late 1700s and officially chartered in 1802. This marker introduces you to St. Marys origins and founding fathers whose names are still honored along the street names today.
3. First Presbyterian Church
100 Conyers St E, St. Marys (30.725, -81.5477)
Established in 1808, this is one of the oldest Presbyterian churches in Georgia. The building is a testament to early American architecture and the town’s enduring faith communities.
4. Washington Pump & Oak
Osborne & Conyers Street, St. Marys (30.72459, -81.5476)
Though only one oak stump remains and water no longer flows from the pump, this site still stands today as a symbolic burial site of George Washington.
5. Orange Hall
311 Osborne St, St. Marys (30.7241, -81.5480)
Originally established for the first pastor of the neighboring First Presbyterian Church. There are many tales of eerie encounters by residents of yesteryear, including a young girl thought to be Rev. Pratt’s daughter Jane. What other eerie tales does our area tell?
6. Historic Pecan Trees
200 Weed Street, St. Marys (30.7228, -81.5459)
The name “pecan” is derived from a Native American word that was used to describe “all nuts requiring a stone to crack”. Pecans were highly favored by President Washington and Jefferson and promoted through the nation especially along waterways.
7. St. Marys Methodist Church
106 Conyers St E, St. Marys (30.7246, -81.5465)
Established between 1799-1800, this beautiful old church represents the earliest Methodist congregations in coastal Georgia. Its weathered wood and quiet yard feel like a direct line to the past.
8. Aaron Burr Fled – Clark-Bessant House
314 Osborne St, St. Marys (30.7244, -81.5474)
After his famous duel with Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr fled south and found refuge in the Clark-Bessant House. Hear more about this story and others with a walking tour!
9. Point Peter Battery and the War of 1812
Spinnaker Road at USS Kamehameha Ave, St. Marys (30.7568, -81.5617)
Remnants of this US military occupation weren’t discovered by archeologists until 2004, previously an unmentioned battery from the invasion of Georgia by the British during the War of 1812. Extend your exploration with a visit to the War of 1812 exhibit at the Cumberland Island Museum for more exciting details and artifacts from this pivotal time.
10. Tabby Sugar Works of John Houstoun McIntosh
Charlie Smith Sr. Hwy – Just past Sub Base Kings Bay’s Stimpson Gate, St. Marys (30.7930, -81.5771)
Step back in time as you explore these sugar house ruins—now a favorite spot for photography and weddings, this historic site offers a glimpse into Georgia’s early sugar industry amid centuries-old tabby walls.
11. Camden County
Corner of Bedell Ave & E 4th St, Woodbine (405 Bedell Ave) (30.9677, 81.7234)
Just around the corner from the Bryan-Lang Archives and historic courthouse, this marker celebrates Camden’s founding settlers. As one of Georgia’s original eight counties, we’ve got deep roots in a state that now has 159! Georgia holds the title of second most counties in the nation.
12. Refuge Plantation
Refuge Rd & US-17, White Oak (30.9850, -81.7287)
Once a thriving rice plantation along the Satilla River, Refuge Plantation offers a glimpse into Camden County’s agricultural past. Today, the historical marker stands as a reminder of the people and labor that shaped this land and the role plantations played in the region’s early economy.
13. Floyd’s Fairfield and Bellview Plantations
Corner of Colesburg Thompkins Rd & US-17, Woodbine (30.9239, -81.7151)
This historical marker recalls the sprawling estates of General John Floyd, an influential early 19th-century figure who shaped Camden County’s agricultural and political development. Located just off US 17, the site offers a glimpse into plantation life on Georgia’s coast.
14. Post Road
Corner of Old Jefferson Hwy & US-17, Woodbine (30.8708, -81.7047)
This marker commemorates the original postal route that ran along US 17, connecting early Georgia settlements. As you drive this stretch today, you’re tracing paths that carried mail, goods, and news—linking towns and building community in the early days.
15. Treaty of Colerain
Corner of Forestry Rd & GA-40, Kingsland (30.8390, -81.8991)
Installed along Highway 40, this marker highlights the 1796 agreement between the United States and the Creek Nation—a pivotal treaty that opened up much of inland Georgia to early settlers. Pausing here offers a moment to reflect on the area’s Native American heritage and the complex beginnings of regional expansion. Located just shy of the county line, check out this marker and more history at the “Land of Trembling Earth” – Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge!
Expand Your Knowledge: St. Marys History Walk
Located on Bartlett St, Next to Oak Grove Cemetery, St. Marys (30.72152, -81.55329)
A self-guided path, where interpretive signs bring over two centuries of coastal Georgia life to light. From shipbuilders and early settlers to 19th-century churches and waterfront landmarks, this stroll is a blend of scenic charm and storytelling— each step inviting you to connect with the stories that shaped our coastal area.
We can’t wait to welcome you to our corner of the coast — where history isn’t just remembered, it’s part of the everyday landscape! Whether you’re a devoted history buff or just love discovering hidden gems on the road, Camden County’s historical markers offer a one-of-a-kind journey through centuries of stories, landmarks, and local legends. From coastal views to countryside byways, each stop brings you closer to the people and events that have helped shape the Kingsland area that you see today.
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