EFFINGHAM COUNTY, Ga. (WSAV) - Georgia Rivers will host an historical journey for paddlers adventure on Ebenezer and Abercorn creeks in late March.
The event will be centered on a two-day paddle trip with indoor and camping accommodations at New Ebenezer Retreat Center. The trip will explore 14 miles of Ebenezer and Abercorn creeks during the weekend of March 21 through 23.
Along the way participants will experience the beauty of these waterways and hear from local historians who will detail the momentous events that took place on and near them and shaped Georgia and the nation’s history.
Ebenezer Creek is one of Georgia’s four state-designated “scenic rivers.” With its blackwater flanked by massive cypress and tupelo trees, Ebenezer, is described by Georgia Rivers as "among the most beautiful paddle routes in the state."
It was also the site in 1864 of the “Ebenezer Massacre,” in which the Union Army removed a pontoon bridge over the creek, leaving recently freed slaves following the Army’s march through Georgia destitute and subject to recapture at the hands of the Confederate Army.
Along Abercorn Creek following the close of the Revolutionary War, Belleisle, within the Savannah River, became home to a community of Black people who refused to be subjected to slavery. Nearly 100 “maroons” carved out a life on this secluded and wild island, defying for several years efforts by local authorities to quash the fortified and armed community.
The group will explore the waterways by day and local historians will present programs on the significance of the historic sites at night.
“One of the purposes of Georgia Rivers paddle trips is to connect people with the natural and cultural history surrounding our rivers and streams,” said Rena Peck, Executive Director of Georgia Rivers. “The Savannah was among the state’s first rivers to be explored and settled so the history along it is both rich and tragic.”
Registration for the event is now open. Fees for adults are $350 and include camping facilities with showers and flush toilets, six catered meals, guide services and maps, shuttle services and educational programs. Rental boats and special indoor accommodations at New Ebenezer Retreat Center may be purchased for additional fees during registration. To register or learn more about the excursion, click here.