Despite its diamond-mullioned exterior, this stately home’s interior takes a more light-hearted approach to design. The Dove White inset cabinetry is classic, with recessed panel doors, a deep bevel inside profile and a matching hood. Streamlined brass cup pulls and knobs are timeless. Departing from the ubiquitous crown molding is a square top trim. The layout supplies plenty of function: a paneled refrigerator; prep sink on the island; built-in microwave and second oven; built-in coffee maker; and a paneled wine refrigerator. Contrast is provided by the countertops and backsplash: honed black Jet Mist granite on the perimeter and a statement-making island top of exuberantly-patterned Arabescato Corchia Italian marble. Flooring pays homage to terrazzo floors popular in the 70’s: “Geotzzo” tiles of inlaid gray and Bianco Dolomite marble. Field tiles in the breakfast area and cooking zone perimeter are a mix of small chips; feature tiles under the island have modern rectangular Bianco Dolomite shapes. Enameled metal pendants and maple stools and dining chairs add a mid-century Scandinavian touch. The turquoise on the table base is a delightful surprise. An adjacent pantry has tall storage, cozy window seats, a playful petal table, colorful upholstered ottomans and a whimsical “balloon animal” stool. This kitchen was done in collaboration with Daniel Heighes Wismer and Greg Dufner of Dufner Heighes and Sarah Witkin of Bilotta Architecture. It is the personal kitchen of the CEO of Sandow Media, Erica Holborn. Click here to read the article on her home featured in Interior Designer Magazine. Photographer: John Ellis Description written by Paulette Gambacorta adapted for Houzz.

This master bathroom renovation transforms a builder-grade standard into a personalized retreat for our lovely Stapleton clients. Recognizing a need for change, our clients called on us to help develop a space that would capture their aesthetic loves and foster relaxation. Our design focused on establishing an airy and grounded feel by pairing various shades of white, natural wood, and dynamic textures. We replaced the existing ceramic floor tile with wood-look porcelain tile for a warm and inviting look throughout the space. We then paired this with a reclaimed apothecary vanity from Restoration Hardware. This vanity is coupled with a bright Caesarstone countertop and warm bronze faucets from Delta to create a strikingly handsome balance. The vanity mirrors are custom-sized and trimmed with a coordinating bronze frame. Elegant wall sconces dance between the dark vanity mirrors and bright white full height mirrors flanking the bathtub. The tub itself is an oversized freestanding bathtub paired with a tall bronze tub filler. We've created a feature wall with Tile Bar's Billowy Clouds ceramic tile floor to ceiling behind the tub. The wave-like movement of the tiles offers a dramatic texture in a pure white field. We removed the existing shower and extended its depth to create a large new shower. The walls are tiled with a large format high gloss white tile. The shower floor is tiled with marble circles in varying sizes that offer a playful aesthetic in an otherwise minimalist space. We love this pure, airy retreat and are thrilled that our clients get to enjoy it for many years to come!

This master bathroom renovation transforms a builder-grade standard into a personalized retreat for our lovely Stapleton clients. Recognizing a need for change, our clients called on us to help develop a space that would capture their aesthetic loves and foster relaxation. Our design focused on establishing an airy and grounded feel by pairing various shades of white, natural wood, and dynamic textures. We replaced the existing ceramic floor tile with wood-look porcelain tile for a warm and inviting look throughout the space. We then paired this with a reclaimed apothecary vanity from Restoration Hardware. This vanity is coupled with a bright Caesarstone countertop and warm bronze faucets from Delta to create a strikingly handsome balance. The vanity mirrors are custom-sized and trimmed with a coordinating bronze frame. Elegant wall sconces dance between the dark vanity mirrors and bright white full height mirrors flanking the bathtub. The tub itself is an oversized freestanding bathtub paired with a tall bronze tub filler. We've created a feature wall with Tile Bar's Billowy Clouds ceramic tile floor to ceiling behind the tub. The wave-like movement of the tiles offers a dramatic texture in a pure white field. We removed the existing shower and extended its depth to create a large new shower. The walls are tiled with a large format high gloss white tile. The shower floor is tiled with marble circles in varying sizes that offer a playful aesthetic in an otherwise minimalist space. We love this pure, airy retreat and are thrilled that our clients get to enjoy it for many years to come!

This master bathroom renovation transforms a builder-grade standard into a personalized retreat for our lovely Stapleton clients. Recognizing a need for change, our clients called on us to help develop a space that would capture their aesthetic loves and foster relaxation. Our design focused on establishing an airy and grounded feel by pairing various shades of white, natural wood, and dynamic textures. We replaced the existing ceramic floor tile with wood-look porcelain tile for a warm and inviting look throughout the space. We then paired this with a reclaimed apothecary vanity from Restoration Hardware. This vanity is coupled with a bright Caesarstone countertop and warm bronze faucets from Delta to create a strikingly handsome balance. The vanity mirrors are custom-sized and trimmed with a coordinating bronze frame. Elegant wall sconces dance between the dark vanity mirrors and bright white full height mirrors flanking the bathtub. The tub itself is an oversized freestanding bathtub paired with a tall bronze tub filler. We've created a feature wall with Tile Bar's Billowy Clouds ceramic tile floor to ceiling behind the tub. The wave-like movement of the tiles offers a dramatic texture in a pure white field. We removed the existing shower and extended its depth to create a large new shower. The walls are tiled with a large format high gloss white tile. The shower floor is tiled with marble circles in varying sizes that offer a playful aesthetic in an otherwise minimalist space. We love this pure, airy retreat and are thrilled that our clients get to enjoy it for many years to come!

This master bathroom renovation transforms a builder-grade standard into a personalized retreat for our lovely Stapleton clients. Recognizing a need for change, our clients called on us to help develop a space that would capture their aesthetic loves and foster relaxation. Our design focused on establishing an airy and grounded feel by pairing various shades of white, natural wood, and dynamic textures. We replaced the existing ceramic floor tile with wood-look porcelain tile for a warm and inviting look throughout the space. We then paired this with a reclaimed apothecary vanity from Restoration Hardware. This vanity is coupled with a bright Caesarstone countertop and warm bronze faucets from Delta to create a strikingly handsome balance. The vanity mirrors are custom-sized and trimmed with a coordinating bronze frame. Elegant wall sconces dance between the dark vanity mirrors and bright white full height mirrors flanking the bathtub. The tub itself is an oversized freestanding bathtub paired with a tall bronze tub filler. We've created a feature wall with Tile Bar's Billowy Clouds ceramic tile floor to ceiling behind the tub. The wave-like movement of the tiles offers a dramatic texture in a pure white field. We removed the existing shower and extended its depth to create a large new shower. The walls are tiled with a large format high gloss white tile. The shower floor is tiled with marble circles in varying sizes that offer a playful aesthetic in an otherwise minimalist space. We love this pure, airy retreat and are thrilled that our clients get to enjoy it for many years to come!

This master bathroom renovation transforms a builder-grade standard into a personalized retreat for our lovely Stapleton clients. Recognizing a need for change, our clients called on us to help develop a space that would capture their aesthetic loves and foster relaxation. Our design focused on establishing an airy and grounded feel by pairing various shades of white, natural wood, and dynamic textures. We replaced the existing ceramic floor tile with wood-look porcelain tile for a warm and inviting look throughout the space. We then paired this with a reclaimed apothecary vanity from Restoration Hardware. This vanity is coupled with a bright Caesarstone countertop and warm bronze faucets from Delta to create a strikingly handsome balance. The vanity mirrors are custom-sized and trimmed with a coordinating bronze frame. Elegant wall sconces dance between the dark vanity mirrors and bright white full height mirrors flanking the bathtub. The tub itself is an oversized freestanding bathtub paired with a tall bronze tub filler. We've created a feature wall with Tile Bar's Billowy Clouds ceramic tile floor to ceiling behind the tub. The wave-like movement of the tiles offers a dramatic texture in a pure white field. We removed the existing shower and extended its depth to create a large new shower. The walls are tiled with a large format high gloss white tile. The shower floor is tiled with marble circles in varying sizes that offer a playful aesthetic in an otherwise minimalist space. We love this pure, airy retreat and are thrilled that our clients get to enjoy it for many years to come!

This stunning 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home sits on just over one very private, mostly flat acre located at 22 Pigeon Hollow Rd San Rafael CA. The spacious home features a chef’s kitchen with granite counters, custom cabinets and high-end appliances. Adjoining the kitchen is a wonderful family room with cathedral ceilings, gas-burning fireplace and opens to the expansive patio, yard and gardens. The south-facing formal living room with wood-burning fireplace gets all day sun. With the formal dining room opening wide to the patio, you will enjoy indoor/outdoor living and entertaining at its finest. Three spacious bedrooms, including master suite with walk-in closet and access to yard through French doors, are all on the ground floor. The second floor fourth bedroom features a beautiful spa bath with jetted tub and separate stall shower. A great office with built-in bookcases also features exterior access through French doors. Hardwood floors throughout, except bedrooms, which are carpeted. A children’s play structure, trampoline and kids’ zipline, while out of site, complete the back yard, which also features a rose garden, raised beds and a pool site. Adjacent to the parking area at the front of the house is the sunken sports court. This spectacular property, located just one mile from Highway. 101, and in the Glenwood School District, is a home you will never want to leave.

Despite its diamond-mullioned exterior, this stately home’s interior takes a more light-hearted approach to design. The Dove White inset cabinetry is classic, with recessed panel doors, a deep bevel inside profile and a matching hood. Streamlined brass cup pulls and knobs are timeless. Departing from the ubiquitous crown molding is a square top trim. The layout supplies plenty of function: a paneled refrigerator; prep sink on the island; built-in microwave and second oven; built-in coffee maker; and a paneled wine refrigerator. Contrast is provided by the countertops and backsplash: honed black Jet Mist granite on the perimeter and a statement-making island top of exuberantly-patterned Arabescato Corchia Italian marble. Flooring pays homage to terrazzo floors popular in the 70’s: “Geotzzo” tiles of inlaid gray and Bianco Dolomite marble. Field tiles in the breakfast area and cooking zone perimeter are a mix of small chips; feature tiles under the island have modern rectangular Bianco Dolomite shapes. Enameled metal pendants and maple stools and dining chairs add a mid-century Scandinavian touch. The turquoise on the table base is a delightful surprise. An adjacent pantry has tall storage, cozy window seats, a playful petal table, colorful upholstered ottomans and a whimsical “balloon animal” stool. This kitchen was done in collaboration with Daniel Heighes Wismer and Greg Dufner of Dufner Heighes and Sarah Witkin of Bilotta Architecture. It is the personal kitchen of the CEO of Sandow Media, Erica Holborn. Click here to read the article on her home featured in Interior Designer Magazine. Photographer: John Ellis Description written by Paulette Gambacorta adapted for Houzz.

Get the Look! 80468 Contemporary Moroccan Style Rug with Organic Modern Style 12'05 x 19'08. This hand-knotted wool contemporary Moroccan area rug with Organic Modern style features an all-over diamond lattice pattern spread across an abrashed field of creamy-vanilla beige. The rainbow-colored lines crisscross in an organic manner, creating a lozenge trellis. With its playful approach, simplistic design, and subtle burst of colors, this contemporary Moroccan area rug prioritizes comfort without compromising on style. Use this Moroccan style rug to tie together different colors in a room or keep a monochromatic space from being too predictable. Well-suited for a wide range of interior styles: Boho Chic, Bauhaus, Hygge, Organic Modern, Danish Modern, Cubism, Modern, Mid-Century Modern, Swedish Modern, Contemporary, Bohemian, Contemporary Scandinavian, Ethnic, Nomadic, Primitive, African, Tribal and Art Moderne. Perfect for a large family room, children's area, oversize playroom, bedroom, front room, living room, game room, billiard room, library, music room, private Chambers, state room, great room, drawing room, office, studio, study or formal sitting room. Rendered in a kaleidoscope of rainbow colors. Abrash. Hand-knotted wool. Made in Pakistan. Measures: 12'05 x 19'08. Brand New. In-Stock.

Despite its diamond-mullioned exterior, this stately home’s interior takes a more light-hearted approach to design. The Dove White inset cabinetry is classic, with recessed panel doors, a deep bevel inside profile and a matching hood. Streamlined brass cup pulls and knobs are timeless. Departing from the ubiquitous crown molding is a square top trim. The layout supplies plenty of function: a paneled refrigerator; prep sink on the island; built-in microwave and second oven; built-in coffee maker; and a paneled wine refrigerator. Contrast is provided by the countertops and backsplash: honed black Jet Mist granite on the perimeter and a statement-making island top of exuberantly-patterned Arabescato Corchia Italian marble. Flooring pays homage to terrazzo floors popular in the 70’s: “Geotzzo” tiles of inlaid gray and Bianco Dolomite marble. Field tiles in the breakfast area and cooking zone perimeter are a mix of small chips; feature tiles under the island have modern rectangular Bianco Dolomite shapes. Enameled metal pendants and maple stools and dining chairs add a mid-century Scandinavian touch. The turquoise on the table base is a delightful surprise. An adjacent pantry has tall storage, cozy window seats, a playful petal table, colorful upholstered ottomans and a whimsical “balloon animal” stool. This kitchen was done in collaboration with Daniel Heighes Wismer and Greg Dufner of Dufner Heighes and Sarah Witkin of Bilotta Architecture. It is the personal kitchen of the CEO of Sandow Media, Erica Holborn. Click here to read the article on her home featured in Interior Designer Magazine. Photographer: John Ellis Description written by Paulette Gambacorta adapted for Houzz.

This master bathroom renovation transforms a builder-grade standard into a personalized retreat for our lovely Stapleton clients. Recognizing a need for change, our clients called on us to help develop a space that would capture their aesthetic loves and foster relaxation. Our design focused on establishing an airy and grounded feel by pairing various shades of white, natural wood, and dynamic textures. We replaced the existing ceramic floor tile with wood-look porcelain tile for a warm and inviting look throughout the space. We then paired this with a reclaimed apothecary vanity from Restoration Hardware. This vanity is coupled with a bright Caesarstone countertop and warm bronze faucets from Delta to create a strikingly handsome balance. The vanity mirrors are custom-sized and trimmed with a coordinating bronze frame. Elegant wall sconces dance between the dark vanity mirrors and bright white full height mirrors flanking the bathtub. The tub itself is an oversized freestanding bathtub paired with a tall bronze tub filler. We've created a feature wall with Tile Bar's Billowy Clouds ceramic tile floor to ceiling behind the tub. The wave-like movement of the tiles offers a dramatic texture in a pure white field. We removed the existing shower and extended its depth to create a large new shower. The walls are tiled with a large format high gloss white tile. The shower floor is tiled with marble circles in varying sizes that offer a playful aesthetic in an otherwise minimalist space. We love this pure, airy retreat and are thrilled that our clients get to enjoy it for many years to come!

This master bathroom renovation transforms a builder-grade standard into a personalized retreat for our lovely Stapleton clients. Recognizing a need for change, our clients called on us to help develop a space that would capture their aesthetic loves and foster relaxation. Our design focused on establishing an airy and grounded feel by pairing various shades of white, natural wood, and dynamic textures. We replaced the existing ceramic floor tile with wood-look porcelain tile for a warm and inviting look throughout the space. We then paired this with a reclaimed apothecary vanity from Restoration Hardware. This vanity is coupled with a bright Caesarstone countertop and warm bronze faucets from Delta to create a strikingly handsome balance. The vanity mirrors are custom-sized and trimmed with a coordinating bronze frame. Elegant wall sconces dance between the dark vanity mirrors and bright white full height mirrors flanking the bathtub. The tub itself is an oversized freestanding bathtub paired with a tall bronze tub filler. We've created a feature wall with Tile Bar's Billowy Clouds ceramic tile floor to ceiling behind the tub. The wave-like movement of the tiles offers a dramatic texture in a pure white field. We removed the existing shower and extended its depth to create a large new shower. The walls are tiled with a large format high gloss white tile. The shower floor is tiled with marble circles in varying sizes that offer a playful aesthetic in an otherwise minimalist space. We love this pure, airy retreat and are thrilled that our clients get to enjoy it for many years to come!

Circa pre-1800 5’11" X 7’5" Very unusual design of Horses All natural dyes it is a treasure for wall hanging or nice addition for any early rug collection. Very good conditions Beautiful blues, brown, beige, and ivory Antique Seven Horses Emperor''s Rug is a very unique and beautiful rug featuring mystical horses and tree motifs as well as an imperial medallion in the middle of the field. The playful scene illustrated on this Antique Seven Horses Emperor’s Rug provides the viewer with many lavish details to discover. This Antique Seven Horses Emperor’s Carpet would make it an excellent addition to contemporary design as well, making this an essential versatile design piece for any space. The horse is a frequent figure of comparison or metaphor in ancient philosophy. Seven Horses Emperor Carpet is an utter extraordinary piece. Actually there are eight horses in this emperor’s alter rug which you can only see seven of them and the weaver did it on purpose to emphasize the importance of the invisible things which really exist and the partially woven horses illustrates the other side of what one can see. The Qing dynasty, officially the Great Qing ([tɕʰíŋ]), was the last imperial dynasty of China. It was established in 1636, and ruled China proper from 1644 to 1912. It was preceded by the Ming dynasty and succeeded by the Republic of China. The multiethnic Qing empire lasted for almost three centuries and formed the territorial base for modern China. It was the fourth largest empire in world history in terms of territorial size. Come and see this beautiful unique Antique Seven Horses Emperor’s Rug at the world famous Rugs and More in the Santa Barbara Design Center.

Challenges with your backyard space? Yeah, that's no problem for us. In this space, the deck could not be attached to the house because of the way this turn-of-the-century home was built. The house is 100 years old and the basement door is right in the middle of the back of the house, preventing an attached deck. Another big challenge on this space was that the lot sloped up the hill and away from the house. So what did we do? We excavated and put in retaining walls and build it into the side of the hill, while maintaining integrity of the backyard space and driveway. The homeowners wanted their outdoor space on the same level as the play area with swingset so that they could watch the kids while they relax. Nailed it! A little bit about us… Deck Remodeler’s Founder and President, Sean McAleer, grew up in his father’s architectural woodworking shop and mastered his craft as a third-generation carpenter and cabinet maker organically. While others adopted the craft, Sean was born in to it. Building a business using the skills he learned and perfected over the years…it’s in his DNA. With 30+ years of experience, he adapted and developed a palette of materials and methods for outdoor living that few can match, though many have tried to copy. Bringing his love of designing and building beautiful things inside the home to the outside spaces with all the challenges that presents has been his passion for decades. While Sean is certainly the visionary of Deck Remodelers, his talented and dedicated team ensures every project, big or small, is designed and built seamlessly. Our team includes in-house certified designers, architects, project management team, operations director, and of course, our highly skilled craftsmen in the field that bring it all to life. What also sets Deck Remodeler’s apart is the experience of working with a full team of passionate professionals. All communication between customers, office staff and workers in the field is done through the real time system, allowing us to stream-line our projects. Customers are kept up to date through our system, and never have to wonder the status of their project – stream-lined communication is a huge priority for us. With 60+ National Design Awards, there’s a reason Deck Remodelers is the MOST awarded deck builder in North America. Regardless of the deck and features, when Deck Remodelers builds your outdoor dream space, it is far from ordinary. Large or small, full features or basic, the design, quality and craftmanship is second to none. You not only get beautiful results, but a company that stands behind its work. We believe it is critical to use quality materials and employ highly trained and certified crew members that assure that quality in every aspect is second to none for our discerning clients. Serving NJ, NY, & CT we’ve got you covered! If you are looking for a modern, traditional, or transitional custom builder to design& build you your perfect backyard space , call the experts at Deck Remodelers for your free virtual consultation! 973.729.2125

4 Richmond Hill / Laguna Niguel has a Panoramic Ocean View! The 4th of July fireworks shows abound. You can enjoy the fireworks from at least 12 cities! The exclusive community of Beacon Hill Summit welcomes you! It is close to the beach, schools, tennis, running trails, community pools, parks, and sports fields. 4 Richmond Hill is an entertainer’s delight! At the end of a cul-de-sac of view homes, this home has a very private, quiet view overlooking the ocean and city lights from the backyard and a convenient, safe play area out front in the cul-de-sac. This spacious, custom home (after several remodels and additions) with a wraparound yard is one of a kind. The traditional look of Beacon Hill is perfect for this home. The ocean views from the family room, kitchen with the casual dining area, and the upstairs master bedroom suite are panoramic and breathtaking. Also, downstairs you have a private bedroom and an office with an updated, exquisite bathroom and double walk-in shower. The backyard can accommodate parties of immense size. The relaxing spa is separated from the boisterous pool by a gourmet BBQ island, a covered dining patio, and outdoor television. You can enjoy the panoramic view with your guests and family. The master bedroom opens to a large, view balcony above the patio and a romantic, circular stairway down to the pool. This home has a unique, versatile, beautifully remodeled floor plan, remodeled kitchen, remodeled master bathroom and remodeled guest bathroom downstairs.

Photo of a coastal landscaping in Portland Maine.

Challenges with your backyard space? Yeah, that's no problem for us. In this space, the deck could not be attached to the house because of the way this turn-of-the-century home was built. The house is 100 years old and the basement door is right in the middle of the back of the house, preventing an attached deck. Another big challenge on this space was that the lot sloped up the hill and away from the house. So what did we do? We excavated and put in retaining walls and build it into the side of the hill, while maintaining integrity of the backyard space and driveway. The homeowners wanted their outdoor space on the same level as the play area with swingset so that they could watch the kids while they relax. Nailed it! A little bit about us… Deck Remodeler’s Founder and President, Sean McAleer, grew up in his father’s architectural woodworking shop and mastered his craft as a third-generation carpenter and cabinet maker organically. While others adopted the craft, Sean was born in to it. Building a business using the skills he learned and perfected over the years…it’s in his DNA. With 30+ years of experience, he adapted and developed a palette of materials and methods for outdoor living that few can match, though many have tried to copy. Bringing his love of designing and building beautiful things inside the home to the outside spaces with all the challenges that presents has been his passion for decades. While Sean is certainly the visionary of Deck Remodelers, his talented and dedicated team ensures every project, big or small, is designed and built seamlessly. Our team includes in-house certified designers, architects, project management team, operations director, and of course, our highly skilled craftsmen in the field that bring it all to life. What also sets Deck Remodeler’s apart is the experience of working with a full team of passionate professionals. All communication between customers, office staff and workers in the field is done through the real time system, allowing us to stream-line our projects. Customers are kept up to date through our system, and never have to wonder the status of their project – stream-lined communication is a huge priority for us. With 60+ National Design Awards, there’s a reason Deck Remodelers is the MOST awarded deck builder in North America. Regardless of the deck and features, when Deck Remodelers builds your outdoor dream space, it is far from ordinary. Large or small, full features or basic, the design, quality and craftmanship is second to none. You not only get beautiful results, but a company that stands behind its work. We believe it is critical to use quality materials and employ highly trained and certified crew members that assure that quality in every aspect is second to none for our discerning clients. Serving NJ, NY, & CT we’ve got you covered! If you are looking for a modern, traditional, or transitional custom builder to design& build you your perfect backyard space , call the experts at Deck Remodelers for your free virtual consultation! 973.729.2125

This backyard patio design is inspired by our Para patio slab. Large-scale, ultra-smooth texture and fine lines best describe the all-new Para HD. Manufactured with Techo-Bloc’s patented High Definition technology, an extremely tight surface texture with pores that are virtually invisible. The Para HD provides contemporary styling and design flexibility. Each of its three sizes are packaged and sold separately allowing your projects to reflect your personal creativity. This 60 mm product is available in a 500 mm x 250 mm, 500 mm x 500 mm and 500 mm x 750 mm. It is available in both hyper smooth and polished textures. Check out our website to shop the look! https://www.techo-bloc.com/shop/slabs/para/

Stuart Wade, Envision Virtual Tours The second-largest and most developed of Georgia's barrier islands, St. Simons is approximately twelve miles long and nearly three miles wide at its widest stretch (roughly the size of Manhattan Island in New York). The island is located in Glynn County on Georgia's coast and lies east of Brunswick (the seat of Glynn County), south of Little St. Simons Island and the Hampton River, and north of Jekyll Island. The resort community of Sea Island is separated from St. Simons on the east by the Black Banks River. Known for its oak tree canopies and historic landmarks, St. Simons is both a tourist destination and, according to the 2010 U.S. census, home to 12,743 residents. Early History The earliest St. Simons Island Village record of human habitation on the island dates to the Late Archaic Period, about 5,000 to 3,000 years ago. Remnants of shell rings left behind by Native Americans from this era survive on many of the barrier islands, including St. Simons. Centuries later, during the period known by historians as the chiefdom era, the Guale Indians established a chiefdom centered on St. Catherines Island and used St. Simons as their hunting and fishing grounds. By 1500 the Guale had established a permanent village of about 200 people on St. Simons, which they called Guadalquini. Beginning in 1568, the Spanish attempted to create missions along the Georgia coast. Catholic missions were the primary means by which Georgia's indigenous Native American chiefdoms were assimilated into the Spanish colonial system along the northern frontier of greater Spanish Florida. In the 1600s St. Simons became home to two Spanish missions: San Buenaventura de Guadalquini, on the southern tip of the island, and Santo Domingo de Asao (or Asajo), on the northern tip. Located on the inland side of the island were the pagan refugee villages of San Simón, the island's namesake, and Ocotonico. In 1684 pirate raids left the missions and villages largely abandoned. Colonial History As Fort Frederica early as 1670, with Great Britain's establishment of the colony of Carolina and its expansion into Georgia territory, Spanish rule was threatened by the English. The Georgia coast was considered "debatable land" by England and Spain, even though Spain had fully retreated from St. Simons by 1702. Thirty-one years later General James Edward Oglethorpe founded the English settlement of Savannah. In 1736 he established Fort Frederica, named after the heir to the British throne, Frederick Louis, prince of Wales, on the west side of St. Simons Island to protect Savannah and the Carolinas from the Spanish threat. Between 1736 and 1749 Fort Frederica was the hub of British military operations along the Georgia frontier. A town of the same name grew up around the fort and was of great importance to the new colony. By 1740 Frederica's population was 1,000. In 1736 the congregation of what would become Christ Church was organized within Fort Frederica as a mission of the Church of England. Charles Wesley led the first services. In 1742 Britain's decisive victory over Spain in the Battle of Bloody Marsh, during the War of Jenkins' Ear, ended the Spanish threat to the Georgia coast. When the British regimen disbanded in 1749, most of the townspeople relocated to the mainland. Fort Frederica went into decline and, except for a short time of prosperity during the 1760s and 1770s under the leadership of merchant James Spalding, never fully recovered. Today the historic citadel's tabby ruins are maintained by the National Park Service. Plantation Era By the start of the American Revolution (1775-83), Fort Frederica was obsolete, and St. Simons was left largely uninhabited as most of its residents joined the patriot army. Besides hosting a small Georgia naval victory on the Fort Frederica River, providing guns from its famous fort for use at Fort Morris in Sunbury, and serving as an arena for pillaging by privateers and British soldiers, the island played almost no role in the war. Following the war, many of the townspeople, their businesses destroyed, turned to agriculture. The island was transformed into fourteen cotton plantations after acres of live oak trees were cleared for farm land and used for building American warships, including the famous USS Constitution, or "Old Ironsides." Although rice was the predominant crop along the neighboring Altamaha River, St. Simons was known for its production of long-staple cotton, which soon came to be known as Sea Island cotton. Between Ebos Landing the 1780s and the outbreak of the Civil War (1861-65), St. Simons's plantation culture flourished. The saline atmosphere and the availability of cheap slave labor proved an ideal combination for the cultivation of Sea Island cotton. In 1803 a group of Ebo slaves who survived the Middle Passage and arrived on the west side of St. Simons staged a rebellion and drowned themselves. The sacred site is known today as Ebos Landing. One of the largest owners of land and slaves on St. Simons was Pierce Butler, master of Hampton Point Plantation, located on the northern end of the island. By 1793 Butler owned more than 500 slaves, who cultivated 800 acres of cotton on St. Simons and 300 acres of rice on Butler's Island in the Altamaha River delta. Butler's grandson, Pierce Mease Butler, who at the age of sixteen inherited a share of his grandfather's estate in 1826, was responsible for the largest sale of human beings in the history of the United States: in 1859, to restore his squandered fortune, he sold 429 slaves in Savannah for more than $300,000. The British actress and writer Fanny Kemble, whose tumultuous marriage to Pierce ended in divorce in 1849, published an eyewitness account of the evils of slavery on St. Simons in her book Journal of a Residence on a Georgian Plantation in 1838-1839 (1863). Another Retreat Plantation large owner of land and slaves on St. Simons was Major William Page, a friend and employee of Pierce Butler Sr. Before purchasing Retreat Plantation on the southwestern tip of the island in 1804, Page managed the Hampton plantation and Butler's Island. Upon Page's death in 1827, Thomas Butler King inherited the land together with his wife, Page's daughter, Anna Matilda Page King. King expanded his father-in-law's planting empire on St. Simons as well as on the mainland, and by 1835 Retreat Plantation alone was home to as many as 355 slaves. The center of life during the island's plantation era was Christ Church, Frederica. Organized in 1807 by a group of island planters, the Episcopal church is the second oldest in the Diocese of Georgia. Embargoes imposed by the War of 1812 (1812-15) prevented the parishioners from building a church structure, so they worshiped in the home of John Beck, which stood on the site of Oglethorpe's only St. Simons residence, Orange Hall. The first Christ Church building, finished on the present site in 1820, was ruined by occupying Union troops during the Civil War. In 1884 the Reverend Anson Dodge Jr. rebuilt the church as a memorial to his first wife, Ellen. The cruciform building with a trussed gothic roof and stained-glass windows remains active today as Christ Church. Civil War and Beyond The St. Simons Island Lighthouse outbreak of the Civil War in 1861 put a sudden end to St. Simons's lucrative plantation era. In January of that year, Confederate troops were stationed at the south end of the island to guard the entrance to Brunswick Harbor. Slaves from Retreat Plantation, owned by Thomas Butler King, built earthworks and batteries. Plantation residents were scattered—the men joined the Confederate army and their families moved to the mainland. Cannon fire was heard on the island in December 1861, and Confederate troops retreated in February 1862, after dynamiting the lighthouse to keep its beacon from aiding Union troops. Soon thereafter, Union troops occupied the island, which was used as a camp for freed slaves. By August 1862 more than 500 former slaves lived on St. Simons, including Susie King Taylor, who organized a school for freed slave children. But in November the ex-slaves were taken to Hilton Head, South Carolina, and Fernandina, Florida, leaving the island abandoned. After the Civil War the island never returned to its status as an agricultural community. The plantations lay dormant because there were no slaves to work the fields. After Union general William T. Sherman's January 1865 Special Field Order No. 15 —a demand that former plantations be divided and distributed to former slaves—was overturned by U.S. president Andrew Johnson less than a year later, freedmen and women were forced to work as sharecroppers on the small farms that dotted the land previously occupied by the sprawling plantations. By St. Simons Lumber Mills 1870 real economic recovery began with the reestablishment of the timber industry. Norman Dodge and Titus G. Meigs of New York set up lumber mill operations at Gascoigne Bluff, formerly Hamilton Plantation. The lumber mills provided welcome employment for both blacks and whites and also provided mail and passenger boats to the mainland. Such water traffic, together with the construction of a new lighthouse in 1872, designed by architect Charles B. Cluskey, marked the beginning of St. Simons's tourism industry. The keeper of the lighthouse created a small amusement park, which drew many visitors, as did the seemingly miraculous light that traveled from the top of the lighthouse tower to the bottom. The island became a summer retreat for families from the mainland, particularly from Baxley, Brunswick, and Waycross. The island's resort industry was thriving by the 1880s. Beachfront structures, such as a new pier and grand hotel, were built on the southeastern end of the island and could be accessed by ferry. Around this time wealthy northerners began vacationing on the island. Twentieth Century The St. Simons Island Pier and Village opening in 1924 of the Brunswick–St. Simons Highway, today known as the Torras Causeway, was a milestone in the development of resorts in the area. St. Simons's beaches were now easily accessible to locals and tourists alike. More than 5,000 automobiles took the short drive from Brunswick to St. Simons via the causeway on its opening day, paving the way for convenient residential and resort development. In 1926 automotive pioneer Howard Coffin of Detroit, Michigan, bought large tracts of land on St. Simons, including the former Retreat Plantation, and constructed a golf course, yacht club, paved roads, and a residential subdivision. Although the causeway had brought large numbers of summer people to the island, St. Simons remained a small community with only a few hundred permanent residents until the 1940s. The St. Simons Island outbreak of World War II (1941-45) brought more visitors and residents to St. Simons. Troops stationed at Jacksonville, Florida; Savannah; and nearby Camp Stewart took weekend vacations on the island, and a new naval air base and radar school became home to even more officers and soldiers. The increased wartime population brought the island its first public school. With a major shipyard for the production of Liberty ships in nearby Brunswick, the waters of St. Simons became active with German U-boats. In April 1942, just off the coast, the Texas Company oil tanker S. S. Oklahoma and the S. S. Esso Baton Rouge were torpedoed by the Germans, bringing the war very close to home for island residents. Due in large part to the military's improvement of the island's infrastructure during the war, development on the island boomed in the 1950s and 1960s. More permanent homes and subdivisions were built, and the island was no longer just a summer resort but also a thriving community. In 1950 the Methodist conference and retreat center Epworth by the Sea opened on Gascoigne Bluff. In 1961 novelist Eugenia Price visited St. Simons and began work on her first works of fiction, known as the St. Simons Trilogy. Inspired by real events on the island, Price's trilogy renewed interest in the history of Georgia's coast, and the novelist herself relocated to the island in 1965 and lived there for thirty-one years. St. Simons is also home to contemporary Georgia writer Tina McElroy Ansa. Since Epworth by the Sea 1980 St. Simons's population has doubled. The island's continued status as a vacation destination and its ongoing development boom have put historic landmarks and natural areas at risk. While such landmarks as the Fort Frederica ruins and the Battle of Bloody Marsh site are preserved and maintained by the National Park Service, and while the historic lighthouse is maintained by the Coastal Georgia Historical Society, historic Ebos Landing has been taken over by a sewage treatment plant. Several coastal organizations have formed in recent years to save natural areas on the island. The St. Simons Land Trust, for example, has received donations of large tracts of land and plans to protect property in the island's three traditional African American neighborhoods. Despite its rapid growth and development, St. Simons remains one of the most beautiful and important islands on the Georgia coast.