News Summary

Hilton Head’s historic Gullah neighborhood is undergoing significant transformation as Dream Finders Homes, LLC, a Florida-based builder, begins construction in the area. The company purchased 34 plots for $3.2 million, sparking backlash and lawsuits amid community concerns. With plans for 147 homes, the project’s impact on Gullah heritage and local demographics remains a vital conversation for residents and stakeholders.

Hilton Head Begins Controversial Development in Historic Gullah Neighborhood

Hilton Head’s historic Gullah neighborhood is facing significant changes as Dream Finders Homes, LLC, a Florida-based homebuilder, has commenced construction in the area.

Key Details

• Acquisition: Dream Finders purchased 34 plots in the Bailey’s Cove subdivision for $3.2 million in December.
• Location: The property lies in the Jonesville Historic Gullah neighborhood, previously home to trees that have now been removed.
• Pricing: Homes are advertised starting “FROM THE $600s” along Jonesville Road.

Community Response

Community backlash has emerged amidst ongoing lawsuits involving the company:

• Dream Finders is a plaintiff in seven lawsuits in Beaufort County, with significant criticism expressed in a Facebook group of over 4,000 members.
• Prior Developer’s Controversy: Bailey Point Investment LLC, the former developer, previously sued 93-year-old Josephine Wright over property encroachments.
• After Wright’s death in January 2024, her family reached a settlement with Bailey Point as recent as March 2024, while the case remains pending.
• Bailey Point still controls the remaining parcels in Bailey’s Cove.

Ongoing Concerns

The developer’s legal troubles extend beyond this project:

• Dream Finders is involved in lawsuits regarding a rainwater drainage system at another location, alleging improper drainage.
• Another lawsuit claims an increase in home prices by $90,000 after securing a down payment.

Future Development Plans

The Bailey’s Cove project aims to include 147 homes, with some already listed for sale and ready for occupancy as early as August. It remains uncertain if Dream Finders will expand its holdings in the area or if other builders will emerge.

Historical Context

Gullah Geechee land ownership on Hilton Head Island has seen a dramatic decline, with descendants owning only 8% of the residential acreage by 2021. The area once had a significant population of Black landowners, but demographic shifts have occurred over recent decades.

Wright’s legacy is expected to continue through the Josephine Wright Foundation, aiding those facing similar pressures from developers.

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Additional Resources

• Island Packet
• Miami Times
• WJCL News
• AP News
• The Guardian
• Wikipedia: Gullah
• Google Search: Hilton Head Gullah
• Google Scholar: Gullah land ownership
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Gullah
• Google News: Gullah Hilton Head