Culture // 3 min Read

History of Hospitality

Written by Palmetto Bluff

Jan 17, 2019

Centered around history, etiquette, gatherings and some sort of delicious Southern food, hospitality at Palmetto Bluff thrives. From the Wilson Era to the Union Camp era, and now present day, each period of the Bluff offers a multitude of tales that build its sense of place and reinforces the dedication to welcoming friends, family, and guests. With so many stories, we have highlighted some of the most exciting anecdotes from each era that will not only unveil the rich history of hospitality Palmetto Bluff has always offered, but also the fun had while making it.

The Wilson Era: The Party Queen, Mrs. Wilson

In 1902, Richard T. Wilson, a wealthy New York Banker, purchased Palmetto Bluff and began construction on a four-story grand mansion to be finished in 1910. His wife, Marion Wilson, was a New York Socialite, with her name always appearing in the newspapers for her lavish parties with exclusive guests and epic entertainment. One newspaper appearance in particular stands out the most with the headline “Mrs. R. T. Wilson Summoned to Court.” After spending most of her winters in Palmetto Bluff, Mrs. Wilson decided to spend the winter of 1921 back home in New York City. During a snowstorm one winter night, Mrs. Wilson hosted an extravagant dinner party with live music. Her neighbors in the apartment below had had enough of her celebrations, calling the police after objecting ‘to the sound of cello and violin after midnight.’ When the policemen arrived and knocked on the door, the music quieted, and Mrs. Wilson opened the door. Being the prime example of a proper hostess, Mrs. Wilson famously invited the two policemen in to the party, creating the perfect gossip material for the New York Times and a textbook instance of how good hospitality should never falter.

The Union Camp Era: The Real Big Carol

Palmetto Bluff’s official food truck, Big Carol, is a staple at events and gatherings around the Bluff serving delectable culinary creations. The true Big Carol, the inspiration behind the food truck name, was the head chef of Union Camp, a hunting retreat in the early 1970’s for clients of the Camp Paper Company. Big Carol was known by the guides and guests alike for her excellent and decadent Southern dishes and “best fried chicken in the world.” Not only was she known for her food, but also her kindness, making sure the not only the guests, but the guides were well-fed and satisfied. With a legacy of great food, hospitality, and dedication to her staff and guests, Big Carol defined what a true Southern-food experience should be.

Present Day: The story behind the Artillery Punch

Known as a deceitful and delicious brew, Montage Palmetto Bluff’s signature cocktail, “Artillery Punch” has been part of the Southern culture for more than two centuries. Brought to Palmetto Bluff by third-generation Savannahian and Montage food and beverage manager, Ross Hardigan, Ross developed the cocktail based on his grandmother’s original recipe. She only gave it up after a lot of cajoling and a few glasses of wine. The origins of the Artillery Punch come from the infamous Chatham Artillery Punch. The Chatham Artillery is one of the oldest military organizations on record in Georgia. In times of celebration, the ladies of the camp would make this this punch and officers of the artillery would sneak in and add a mix of spirits resulting in a memorable brew with one heck of a kick. Taking an original recipe and putting a unique twist on it, Palmetto Bluff’s Artillery Punch gives a nod to its historic past with a modern twist.

palmetto bluff builders

Architecture & Design / The Palmetto Bluff Builders Design Process

Behind the Design with Jason Kimes & Leighann Markalunas In the heart of the Lowcountry, where the gentle sway of Spanish moss-laden trees meets the tranquil embrace of the coast, lies a unique community: Palmetto Bluff. Their approach to home design capt...

Sep 2023

Food & Wine / Fall Recipes From Buffalos

Your Pine-ness Cocktail Recipe Before delving into the ingredients and recipe for Buffalos’ delectable Ricotta Meatballs and Sauce, it is imperative that the chef has an excellent cocktail for cooking. Pairing the sweetness of pineapple with the woody flavo...

Sep 2023
palmetto bluff neighborhoods

Real Estate / Waterfront Neighborhoods in Palmetto Bluff

Coastal Palmetto Bluff Neighborhoods Palmetto Bluff, a private community nestled along the South Carolina coastline, presents a harmonious blend of luxurious living, recreational spaces, and a vibrant atmosphere. The meticulously designed Palmetto Bluff neigh...

Sep 2023
wilson landing

Waterways / Behind the Bluff with Marina Captain: Thomas Shanahan

Meet Captain Tom of Palmetto Bluff’s Wilson Landing  In the tranquil embrace of Bluffton's Lowcountry, where rivers wind their way through nature's masterpiece, an extraordinary tale unfolds at Wilson Landing of Palmetto Bluff. The story belongs to Captain Th...

Sep 2023
luxury kitchen design

Architecture & Design / Designing the Southern Kitchen of Your Dreams

Your Guide to a Luxury Kitchen Design The kitchen has long been the heart of the home, where cherished memories are cooked up and shared. When it comes to Lowcountry living, a well-designed kitchen is not just a place to prepare meals but a space that encapsu...

Sep 2023
summer bucket list

Culture / Summer Activities to Check Off Your List Before the Fall

10 Activities You Have to Cross Off Your Summer Bucket List While the days are long and the sun hangs high in the sky, summer offers a golden opportunity to create lasting memories and partake in a variety of thrilling activities. Before the cooler breeze of ...

Sep 2023

Conservation / Water Way

Palmetto Bluff is an ecological wonderland, with its maritime forest and tidal rivers, its salt marsh and abundant wildlife. But perhaps one of the most unique features of this wedge of Lowcountry is the impressive inland waterway that wends through the landsc...

Aug 2023

Artist in Residence / Places Around Palmetto Bluff to Paint Plein Air

Plein Air Painting and Our August Artist in Residence Palmetto Bluff is a paradise for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike with its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and serene atmosphere. With that being said, the Bluff is the perfect canvas f...

Aug 2023
coastal living

Waterways / Experience Health and Happiness By Living on the Coast

5 Health Benefits of Coastal Living Did you know that life by the coast is not only the most idyllic way to live, but it also improves your health? All in all, coastal living is a rejuvenating experience for the mind, body, and soul. From the cool, salty bree...

Aug 2023
south carolina lowcountry

Culture / 9 Enticing Facts About the Lowcountry

Discover the Charm of the South Carolina Lowcountry Where history and nature intertwine with effortless grace, the South Carolina Lowcountry is a region that allures visitors and residents alike with its timeless beauty, enchanting landscapes, and diverse cul...

Aug 2023
LIVE
Community Villages
Experience
Palmetto Bluff Club
On The Water
The Arts Initiative
Events
Conserve
About Us