Discovery Lecture Series
Don't miss out on the Coastal Discovery Museum's captivating Discovery Lecture Series, designed to engage both locals and visitors alike! Held most Wednesdays at 2:30 pm from September to May, this series features a diverse lineup of guest presenters, including authors, university professors, artists, environmental educators, historians, museum directors, archaeologists, and more.
Whether you're passionate about history, intrigued by nature, or simply enjoy learning something new, there's something for everyone in our Lecture Series.
BE IN THE KNOW
CHINESE PLANTS IN THE LOWCOUNTRY:
THE LEGACY OF JOHN BRADBY BLAKE (1745-1773)
January 22, 2025/2:30-3:30 pm
Before Georgia’s founding, the Savannah River Delta was a hub for botanical experimentation, which continued into the 1760s and 1770s. Dr. Robert Batchelor of Georgia Southern University will explore the work of John Bradby Blake, an East India Company employee who, despite never visiting the Americas, collaborated with John Ellis to introduce Chinese plants like gardenias and soybeans to the colonial South. He’ll discuss Blake’s legacy, including the infamous Chinese Tallow Tree—useful for rice fields but invasive in the Lowcountry—and how these botanical exchanges shaped local agriculture and ecology.
Dr. Robert Batchelor (PhD. UCLA) is Chair of the Department of History and Director of Digital Humanities at Georgia Southern University. He has worked with the Blake archives in London and at Rachel Mellon's Oak Spring Foundation.
$7 per person.
Register NowCHINESE PLANTS IN THE LOWCOUNTRY:
THE LEGACY OF JOHN BRADBY BLAKE (1745-1773)
January 22, 2025/2:30-3:30 pm
Before Georgia’s founding, the Savannah River Delta was a hub for botanical experimentation, which continued into the 1760s and 1770s. Dr. Robert Batchelor of Georgia Southern University will explore the work of John Bradby Blake, an East India Company employee who, despite never visiting the Americas, collaborated with John Ellis to introduce Chinese plants like gardenias and soybeans to the colonial South. He’ll discuss Blake’s legacy, including the infamous Chinese Tallow Tree—useful for rice fields but invasive in the Lowcountry—and how these botanical exchanges shaped local agriculture and ecology.
Dr. Robert Batchelor (PhD. UCLA) is Chair of the Department of History and Director of Digital Humanities at Georgia Southern University. He has worked with the Blake archives in London and at Rachel Mellon's Oak Spring Foundation.
$7 per person.
Register NowNAVIGATING THE
WINTER NIGHT SKY
January 29, 2025/2:30-3:30 pm
The winter solstice is the perfect time to explore the night sky. Join local Sky Ranger Marie McClune to learn how to identify the constellations in the Winter Hexagon, including Orion, Taurus, Auriga, Gemini, Canis Major, and Canis Minor. You’ll also hear the myths behind these stars and where to find resources to continue stargazing on your own.
$7 per person
Register Now
NAVIGATING THE
WINTER NIGHT SKY
January 29, 2025/2:30-3:30 pm
The winter solstice is the perfect time to explore the night sky. Join local Sky Ranger Marie McClune to learn how to identify the constellations in the Winter Hexagon, including Orion, Taurus, Auriga, Gemini, Canis Major, and Canis Minor. You’ll also hear the myths behind these stars and where to find resources to continue stargazing on your own.
$7 per person
Register Now
PORT ROYAL SOUND IN FOCUS:
UNDERSTANDING WATER HEALTH THROUGH MONITORING
February 5, 2025/2:30-3:30 pm
Water defines the Port Royal Sound watershed, with its ebbs and flows of saltwater surrounding us all. Our economy and livelihood depend on this natural resource, requiring constant vigilance. The Port Royal Sound Foundation is building a citizen science program to address this need.
Chris Kehrer, the Foundation’s Science Program Manager, will explain how they use historical data and partnerships—from state agencies to local municipalities—to enhance our understanding through active citizen participation. Learn how you can volunteer and contribute to these vital citizen science projects.
Register NowPORT ROYAL SOUND IN FOCUS:
UNDERSTANDING WATER HEALTH THROUGH MONITORING
February 5, 2025/2:30-3:30 pm
Water defines the Port Royal Sound watershed, with its ebbs and flows of saltwater surrounding us all. Our economy and livelihood depend on this natural resource, requiring constant vigilance. The Port Royal Sound Foundation is building a citizen science program to address this need.
Chris Kehrer, the Foundation’s Science Program Manager, will explain how they use historical data and partnerships—from state agencies to local municipalities—to enhance our understanding through active citizen participation. Learn how you can volunteer and contribute to these vital citizen science projects.
Register NowLOVE IS IN THE AIR:
AVIARY BREEDING BEHAVIORS ON HILTON HEAD
February 12, 2025/2:30-3:30 pm
Explore the courtship rituals and breeding behaviors of Hilton Head’s birdlife with Mary Alice Tartler, wildlife photographer and Audubon Master Birder. Through her stunning photography, you’ll witness the dramas of the aviary rookery during breeding season. This presentation is perfect for both new birders and seasoned enthusiasts.
$7 per person.
Register Now
LOVE IS IN THE AIR:
AVIARY BREEDING BEHAVIORS ON HILTON HEAD
February 12, 2025/2:30-3:30 pm
Explore the courtship rituals and breeding behaviors of Hilton Head’s birdlife with Mary Alice Tartler, wildlife photographer and Audubon Master Birder. Through her stunning photography, you’ll witness the dramas of the aviary rookery during breeding season. This presentation is perfect for both new birders and seasoned enthusiasts.
$7 per person.
Register Now
MEET A
REVOLUTIONARY WAR SOLDIER
February 26, 2025/2:30-3:30 pm
Join us as we approach the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Roy Vitters, a seasoned Revolutionary War reenactor and former President of the American Revolution Round Table, will bring history to life in this engaging presentation. Learn about the daily life of a Continental Army private, with a uniform, weapons, and equipment on display—plus a chance for a volunteer to try them on. Roy will also discuss the American Revolution's history in the South. A brief outdoors musket-firing demonstration will follow the talk.
$7 per person
Register NowMEET A
REVOLUTIONARY WAR SOLDIER
February 26, 2025/2:30-3:30 pm
Join us as we approach the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Roy Vitters, a seasoned Revolutionary War reenactor and former President of the American Revolution Round Table, will bring history to life in this engaging presentation. Learn about the daily life of a Continental Army private, with a uniform, weapons, and equipment on display—plus a chance for a volunteer to try them on. Roy will also discuss the American Revolution's history in the South. A brief outdoors musket-firing demonstration will follow the talk.
$7 per person
Register NowDOROTHY SINKLER RICHARDSON:
THE WOMAN WHO SAVED FRANCIS MARION'S LIFE
March 19, 2025/2:30-3:30 pm
During the American Revolution, Brigadier General Francis Marion—nicknamed the "Swamp Fox" — was known for his daring guerrilla tactics, leading surprise attacks that frustrated British forces in South Carolina. And yet, in the summer of 1780, when the British set a trap for Marion, it was Dorothy Sinkler Richardson who saved him.
Who was this courageous woman, and how did she outwit the enemy? Join independent researcher, author, and living history presenter Margaret (Peggy) Pickett for a captivating look at this little-known Revolutionary War story. History buffs and curious minds welcome!
$7 per person.
Register Now
DOROTHY SINKLER RICHARDSON:
THE WOMAN WHO SAVED FRANCIS MARION'S LIFE
March 19, 2025/2:30-3:30 pm
During the American Revolution, Brigadier General Francis Marion—nicknamed the "Swamp Fox" — was known for his daring guerrilla tactics, leading surprise attacks that frustrated British forces in South Carolina. And yet, in the summer of 1780, when the British set a trap for Marion, it was Dorothy Sinkler Richardson who saved him.
Who was this courageous woman, and how did she outwit the enemy? Join independent researcher, author, and living history presenter Margaret (Peggy) Pickett for a captivating look at this little-known Revolutionary War story. History buffs and curious minds welcome!
$7 per person.
Register NowPAST LECTURES
OYSTERS ON THE HALF SHELL:
REFLECTIONS OF COASTAL WATERS
December 4/2:30-3:30 pm
Have you heard the saying, "You are what you eat?" This is especially true for oysters that grow in coastal rivers and bays. Oysters take on the flavors of the plankton they consume, and the available plankton can vary significantly—even between locations just 10 miles apart.
That’s one reason you might taste five distinct varieties of oysters at a raw bar, each with its own unique flavor.
In this lecture, Erin Arneson, Seafood Specialist for the University of Georgia Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant unit, will delve into the natural history of oysters and the growing half-shell oyster industry. The next time you order raw oysters, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for their variety and the coastal waters they call home.
Register NowOYSTERS ON THE HALF SHELL:
REFLECTIONS OF COASTAL WATERS
December 4/2:30-3:30 pm
Have you heard the saying, "You are what you eat?" This is especially true for oysters that grow in coastal rivers and bays. Oysters take on the flavors of the plankton they consume, and the available plankton can vary significantly—even between locations just 10 miles apart.
That’s one reason you might taste five distinct varieties of oysters at a raw bar, each with its own unique flavor.
In this lecture, Erin Arneson, Seafood Specialist for the University of Georgia Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant unit, will delve into the natural history of oysters and the growing half-shell oyster industry. The next time you order raw oysters, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for their variety and the coastal waters they call home.
Register NowLET YOUR GARDEN GROW:
DISCOVERING TREASURES AMONG COMMON "WEEDS"
November 13/2:30-3:30 pm
What if some of the plants you've been battling in your garden can be good for you?
Join Jamillah Miller, experienced herbalist and owner of Four Seasons Apothecary, as she guides you through the world of natural remedies.
You’ll learn how to identify common "weeds" with medicinal value and some safe ways to incorporate these plants into your wellness routine.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply curious about herbal remedies, this lecture promises to deepen your connection with what grows around you and in our gardens.After the presentation, Jamillah will showcase a curated selection of Four Seasons Apothecary products available for purchase.
Register Now
LET YOUR GARDEN GROW:
DISCOVERING TREASURES AMONG COMMON "WEEDS"
November 13/2:30-3:30 pm
What if some of the plants you've been battling in your garden can be good for you?
Join Jamillah Miller, experienced herbalist and owner of Four Seasons Apothecary, as she guides you through the world of natural remedies.
You’ll learn how to identify common "weeds" with medicinal value and some safe ways to incorporate these plants into your wellness routine.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply curious about herbal remedies, this lecture promises to deepen your connection with what grows around you and in our gardens.After the presentation, Jamillah will showcase a curated selection of Four Seasons Apothecary products available for purchase.
Register Now
DON'T LET YOUR RECYCLING
GO TO WASTE
November 6/2:30-3:30 pm
Ever wonder if your recycling is making it to the right place? Join Mike Bennett, owner of i2recycle, as he explains Beaufort County's new recycling guidelines. You'll learn the dos and don'ts of local recycling, along with the reasons why certain practices work—and others don't. Recently, i2recycle was awarded contracts with Beaufort County’s Convenience Centers and the Town of Hilton Head Island to increase recycling, improve how we handle waste, including beach trash, and educate residents and the community.
Whether you're part of a community club, organization, business, or neighborhood, we encourage you to send a representative to this informative session and help spread the word about smarter recycling practices.
Register NowDON'T LET YOUR RECYCLING
GO TO WASTE
November 6/2:30-3:30 pm
Ever wonder if your recycling is making it to the right place? Join Mike Bennett, owner of i2recycle, as he explains Beaufort County's new recycling guidelines. You'll learn the dos and don'ts of local recycling, along with the reasons why certain practices work—and others don't. Recently, i2recycle was awarded contracts with Beaufort County’s Convenience Centers and the Town of Hilton Head Island to increase recycling, improve how we handle waste, including beach trash, and educate residents and the community.
Whether you're part of a community club, organization, business, or neighborhood, we encourage you to send a representative to this informative session and help spread the word about smarter recycling practices.
Register NowGREG RUSSELL:
HILTON HEAD TREASURE
October 23, 2024 / 2:30-3:30 pm
Join Gregg Russell, the island's beloved singer, songwriter and actor, for a special lecture about his early days on Hilton Head, his friendship with Charles Fraser (the founder of Sea Pines), and his lifelong dedication to bringing joy through music and entertainment.
Register Now
GREG RUSSELL:
HILTON HEAD TREASURE
October 23, 2024 / 2:30-3:30 pm
Join Gregg Russell, the island's beloved singer, songwriter and actor, for a special lecture about his early days on Hilton Head, his friendship with Charles Fraser (the founder of Sea Pines), and his lifelong dedication to bringing joy through music and entertainment.
Register Now
GETTING BOGGED DOWN:
EXPLORING THE SALT MARSH ECOSYSTEM
October 16/2:30-3:30 pm
Ever found yourself stuck in the pluff mud of the salt marsh? You’re not alone! Join S.C. Sea Grant Consortium educators, E.V. Bell and Morgan Treon, for an engaging presentation on the importance of the salt marsh ecosystem to our coastal communities.
This interactive session includes hands-on activities and live specimens. The biology and ecology of smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) will be a key focus, highlighting its critical role in maintaining the health and sustainability of the salt marsh. You'll also learn about the From Seeds to Shoreline® project, South Carolina’s first and only youth-focused restoration program. Publications and handouts provided.
Register NowGETTING BOGGED DOWN:
EXPLORING THE SALT MARSH ECOSYSTEM
October 16/2:30-3:30 pm
Ever found yourself stuck in the pluff mud of the salt marsh? You’re not alone! Join S.C. Sea Grant Consortium educators, E.V. Bell and Morgan Treon, for an engaging presentation on the importance of the salt marsh ecosystem to our coastal communities.
This interactive session includes hands-on activities and live specimens. The biology and ecology of smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) will be a key focus, highlighting its critical role in maintaining the health and sustainability of the salt marsh. You'll also learn about the From Seeds to Shoreline® project, South Carolina’s first and only youth-focused restoration program. Publications and handouts provided.
Register NowCORRECT MISPRONUNCIATIONS OF
SOME SOUTH CAROLINA NAMES
October 2/2:30-3:30 pm
Coosawhatchie. Pocataligo. Combahee. These names can be challenging for newcomers—and even locals—to pronounce. Join us to learn how to properly pronounce local family and place names the way native South Carolinians do, while also picking up some local history tidbits. By "correct mispronunciations," we mean pronunciations considered correct in South Carolina but likely unfamiliar to those from elsewhere.
South Carolina native Grace Cordial, Beaufort District Collection Manager, Beaufort County Library, will share fascinating stories of our local history, places, and families—and the correct way to "mispronounce" them.
Register Now
CORRECT MISPRONUNCIATIONS OF
SOME SOUTH CAROLINA NAMES
October 2, 2024/2:30-3:30 pm
Coosawhatchie. Pocataligo. Combahee. These names can be challenging for newcomers—and even locals—to pronounce. Join us to learn how to properly pronounce local family and place names the way native South Carolinians do, while also picking up some local history tidbits. By "correct mispronunciations," we mean pronunciations considered correct in South Carolina but likely unfamiliar to those from elsewhere.
South Carolina native Grace Cordial, Beaufort District Collection Manager, Beaufort County Library, will share fascinating stories of our local history, places, and families—and the correct way to "mispronounce" them.
Register Now
STEWARDS OF THE SOUND
AND BEYOND
September 25/2:30-3:30 pm
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) Marine Resources Division is dedicated to advocating for and stewarding the state’s marine resources. Through long-term surveys and collaboration among research groups, they monitor population trends to inform species management and stock enhancement strategies. Their programs aim to ensure the success of estuarine finfish populations for future generations and, most importantly, to preserve our coastal habitats.
Erin Levesque, SCDNR biologist and Waddell Mariculture Center Manager, will highlight species such as red drum, cobia, and southern flounder, and discuss past and current projects focused on protecting our marine resources.
Register NowSTEWARDS OF THE SOUND
AND BEYOND
September 25/2:30-3:30 pm
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) Marine Resources Division is dedicated to advocating for and stewarding the state’s marine resources. Through long-term surveys and collaboration among research groups, they monitor population trends to inform species management and stock enhancement strategies. Their programs aim to ensure the success of estuarine finfish populations for future generations and, most importantly, to preserve our coastal habitats.
Erin Levesque, SCDNR biologist and Waddell Mariculture Center Manager, will highlight species such as red drum, cobia, and southern flounder, and discuss past and current projects focused on protecting our marine resources.
Register NowTHE COPPERHEAD, AND OTHER FASCINATING
SNAKES OF THE LOWCOUNTRY
April 3rd, 2024 / 2:30-3:30
Snakes of the Lowcountry have captured the curiosities and fascinations of residents and visitors to this region for hundreds of years. Perhaps the most bewildering of South Carolina’s 39 snake species is the Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix). Learn more about common snakes found in the Lowcountry and dive even deeper into the life of the copperhead with Jake Zadik, Brays Island Naturalist and Co-chair for the South Carolina Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (SCPARC).
Register Now
THE COPPERHEAD, AND OTHER FASCINATING
SNAKES OF THE LOWCOUNTRY
April 3rd, 2024 / 2:30-3:30
Snakes of the Lowcountry have captured the curiosities and fascinations of residents and visitors to this region for hundreds of years. Perhaps the most bewildering of South Carolina’s 39 snake species is the Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix). Learn more about common snakes found in the Lowcountry and dive even deeper into the life of the copperhead with Jake Zadik, Brays Island Naturalist and Co-chair for the South Carolina Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (SCPARC).
Register Now
ON THE WING:
EXPLORING BIRD MIGRATION
April 10, 2024 / 2:30-3:30 PM
Every year billions of birds travel thousands of miles between breeding grounds in North America and wintering grounds in Central and South America. Discover why birds migrate across continents and learn about some tools scientists use to understand the movement of migratory birds with Heather Kraus, Education and Outreach Coordinator at Nemours Wildlife Foundation. Heather will also share her experience with one tool, the Motus Wildlife Tracking System, that is making it easier than ever before to track many small flying animals across long distances.
Register NowON THE WING:
EXPLORING BIRD MIGRATION
April 10, 2024 / 2:30-3:30 PM
Every year billions of birds travel thousands of miles between breeding grounds in North America and wintering grounds in Central and South America. Discover why birds migrate across continents and learn about some tools scientists use to understand the movement of migratory birds with Heather Kraus, Education and Outreach Coordinator at Nemours Wildlife Foundation. Heather will also share her experience with one tool, the Motus Wildlife Tracking System, that is making it easier than ever before to track many small flying animals across long distances.
Register NowTHE CUBA-HILTON HEAD
CONNECTION
April 24, 2024 / 2:30-3:30 PM
Did you know that for over a hundred years there was a direct connection between Hilton Head Island and Cuba, via steamship? For decades, this connection brought business, trade, and cultural connections from Cuba to our island, including Honey Horn Plantation which was owned by Cuban Americans after the Civil War. Dr. James Shinn is a historian that specializes in studying Cuban American history and has spent years research the connections between Cuba and the US throughout history. This presentation will talk about how Hilton Head Island and Cuba were connected in the late 1800 and early 1900s.
Register Now
THE CUBA-HILTON HEAD
CONNECTION
April 24, 2024 / 2:30-3:30 PM
Did you know that for over a hundred years there was a direct connection between Hilton Head Island and Cuba, via steamship? For decades, this connection brought business, trade, and cultural connections from Cuba to our island, including Honey Horn Plantation which was owned by Cuban Americans after the Civil War. Dr. James Shinn is a historian that specializes in studying Cuban American history and has spent years research the connections between Cuba and the US throughout history. This presentation will talk about how Hilton Head Island and Cuba were connected in the late 1800 and early 1900s.
Register Now