| |
|
|
News
|
|
|
|
|
 |
ROUTE:
US 17 South to 82, West to Waycross. Go 1 mile past US 1 intersection, turn left (South) into Gilmore Street. Follow signs, 8-1/2 miles to park on Swamp Road.
|
DRIVING TIME:
1 hour 15 minutes from Brunswick
|
TOUR TIME:
1-1/2 to 3 hours
|
CONTACT:
Obediah's Okefenok
500 Obediah Trail
Waycross, GA 31503
Ph. 912/287-0090.
www.okefenokeeswamp.com
|
LISTED ON THE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES. A homestead representing the frontier agricultural lifestyle maintained by an early settler at a time when industry and commercial growth was a concern. Displays of Biological and Zoological knowledge obtained by great swampers. An educational reminder that every living thing has a place on earth, even the strangest of swamp creatures.
The log home is the oldest swamp settler's home to remain in and around the swamp, construction by the hands of a renowned farmer, hunter and explorer. Henry Obediah Barber (1825-1909) lived here on the northwestern rim of the Okefenokee, and was a larger-than-life character at 6-1/2 feet tall. Serving as guide for surveying parties, he explored and mapped many areas of the swamp in 1857, 1875 and 1890. By 1890, Obediah was a living legend. He was father to 20 children and married three times. In 1880, Obediah owned 1,520 acres, three horses and four working oxen. Four acres of his farm were dedicated to rice growing, producing 3,875 pounds. Corn, oats, sugar cane, sweet potatoes and other fruits and vegetables were also grown by the Barber family. Along with bees producing 100 pounds of honey and 12 pounds of wax, he estimated the sale of produce to be around $300 in 1879.
Today the cabin is the material core for a historical park that interprets life in and around the Okefenokee during 1850-1910. The Obediah Barber homestead is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Marker placed, March 23, 1996.
Experience an educational venture through exhibits of more than 70 difference species of wildlife, native and exotic animals and over 20 structures including 2 museums and homestead outbuildings. A photographer's paradise anytime of the year. Nature lovers and history buffs spend hours touring the park.
|
Special events are planned for every month. Please call for information and event schedule.
|
GENERAL ADMISSION: Seniors, 55-up: $3.50; Adults 18-54: $4.50; Children 6-17: $3.00. AAA members discounted. Group and field trip rates apply by reservation only. Guided tours rates apply by reservation only.
|
HOURS: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Holidays vary. Special Events: 912/287-0090.
|
|
|
 |
|
