“Shipyard Shindig” Invites Public to Rarely Accessible Historic Property

Saturday, May 22 from 11:00am to 4:00pm marks the celebration of the Heart of Oak Benefit, presenting the “Shipyard Shindig,” to be held at Hobcaw Shipyard, a National Register of Historic Places property.  The festival is free and open to the public and it will be the first time the tall ship Spirit of South Carolina will open to the public in Mount Pleasant.  In addition there will be live music, food and beverages for purchase, maritime historians, children’s activities, a tree sale, and complimentary boat rides along the scenic Wando River.

The Heart of Oak Benefit is a joint fundraiser between two local non-profits: The South Carolina Maritime Foundation and The Mount Pleasant Land Conservancy.  These two organizations create a wonderful synergy in educating our citizens to better understand and respect the natural environment.

Parking is available offsite at the Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park where free shuttles will transport attendees to and from the festival grounds.  There will be no onsite parking, coolers or pets allowed.  Food, beverages and merchandise will be available for purchase with cash or credit

A family fun event inspired to give the public a rare glimpse of a historic shipbuilding archeological site dating back to the early 1700’s.  Situated where the Hobcaw Creek meets the Wando River, the Hernandez family has generously donated the use of the eight-acre Hobcaw Shipyard site for the celebration.  Festival attendees will be able to walk along the entire parcel which is immersed in grand, historic live oaks and surrounded by water on three sides.  Tours aboard the 140-foot Spirit of South Carolina will be held throughout the day giving the public an opportunity to witness the towering masts and rigging of the schooner, built from designs found at the Smithsonian to reflect the lines of a Lowcountry pilot schooner from 1879.  There will also be other period vessels for the public to view.

 South Carolina Maritime Foundation

 The South Carolina Maritime Foundation owns and operates the Spirit of South Carolina tall ship.  The Foundation's mission is to create opportunities for life-changing experiences resulting in leaders for tomorrow’s communities.  Since its first season of programming in 2007, nearly 6,000 students have been served.  With the support of local partnerships, the South Carolina maritime foundation is able to generate funds to keep these exceptional programs in place.  Visit www.scmaritime.org for more information.

 Sara Papas, Marketing and Donor Relations Manager

Phone: 843-722-1030 x 17

spappas@scmaritime.org

Mount Pleasant Land Conservancy

 The mission of The Mount Pleasant Land Conservancy is to enhance the quality of life for all East Cooper residents through education and preservation of open space by promoting protection, acquisition  and stewardship of our land resources.  With a unique focus on urban areas, the Conservancy has successfully preserved nearly 200 acres of undeveloped land to be maintained as open spaces for public use, appreciation and enjoyment forever. Find out more about properties protected and projects under review at www.mountpland.org.

John Girault, Executive Director

Phone; 843-884-1060

john@mountpland.org