What are the Tree Spirits of St Simons Island? Well, if you look closely, down a side street, just off the main drag, past the tourists dashing about, you might find them.
They are serene. Enchanting. Perhaps contemplating the changes, their vessel has seen. Perhaps longing for another voyage. They are the tree spirits of St. Simons Island, and finding them is a fun way to explore this gem in Georgia’s Golden Isles.
TREE SPIRITS OF ST SIMONS ISLAND
The tree Spirits of St. Simon’s Island have been carved into the majestic oaks that surround the island by local artist Keith Jennings. These 20 tree spirit weathered faces peer out from the nubs of a long-gone branch or a break in the bark.
Legend has it that the images pay homage to sailors who lost their lives at sea aboard sailing ships made from the mighty St. Simon’s Island oak trees. Finding one is like going on a treasure hunt!
The tree spirits are located throughout St. Simons Island. The Golden Isles Welcome Center has a tree spirit map to find those on public property.
Don’t forget to stop by one of the Golden Isles CVB Welcome Center locations for the most up-to-date information about Tree Spirits and insider knowledge about where the new ones will pop up! Outside the Saint Simons Welcome Center is the most amazing tree spirits on the island, a full-length mermaid found outside the CVB office.
Some have disappeared with the trees themselves. Some are now in the backyards of private homes on private property, and we advise admiring these from afar. Some seem to be freshly carved.
We found a large group of them in a subdivision off the main drag, but one that used to reside outside Murphy’s Tavern on Main Street has disappeared. Sadly on our last visit to the island, we found that someone has cut the Murphy’s Tavern spirit out of the tree.
That said, others are taking up the work that Mr. Jennings started and there are new tree spirits being added all the time. In more recent years, Jennings has brought his son Devon to the Island to collaborate on the newest Tree Spirits.
Do you have a favorite? Leave us a comment to it’s whereabouts!
DO TREE CARVINGS HURT THE TREES?
Locations and placements are methodical. The artists work with local arborists to ensure the tree is unharmed during the process. According to the Golden Isles website, “All Tree Spirits commissioned by the Golden Isles CVB have been placed on areas of trees void of living tissue, such as scars left behind by lightning strikes or stumps where a branch has fallen or been removed.” They work hard to protect the tree during and after the process.
GETTING AROUND SAINT SIMONS
There are many ways to get around during your scavenger hunt! While driving around in your car is acceptable. You can also rent a golf cart from one of the local rental shops. Or rent a bike, travel around the many trails, or bring your bike.
Either way, you’ve got to get around to see these beauties!
WHERE TO STAY ON ST SIMONS ISLAND
MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR GEORGIA VISIT
- YOUR GEORGIA VACATION
- JEKYLL ISLAND: Protected Coastal Beauty with Resort Fun
- SAINT SIMONS ISLAND: An Insider’s Guide to Stay, Eat & Play
- LITTLE SAINT SIMONS: Tricks, Tips, and Tidbits
Where can I find the Tree Spirits?
There are 20 Tree Spirits across St Simons. An excellent place to start is the St Simons Island Welcome Center. Here you can get a map to assist in your search.
Who carved the Tree Spirits?
The carvings began popping up all over the island in the 1980s. These are carved by artist, Keith Jennings.
What else is St. Simons Island known for?
St. Simons Island is known for lovely family-friendly beaches, delicious dining options, boutique shopping, and excellent golf courses.
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