Lazaretto

Lazaretto

Year Erected: 1958

Marker Text: After the repeal of the anti-slavery provision in the Charter of the Colony of Georgia in 1749, an act permitting the importation of slaves ordered the erection of a Lazaretto (Quarantine Station) on Tybee Island. Not until 1767 were 104 acres purchased from Josiah Tattnall for this purpose. Completed the following year, the buildings were situated on the westernmost tip of Tybee, at the mouth of what soon became known as Lazaretto Creek. In its hospital voyagers who arrived ill were treated and those who died were buried in unmarked graves. After continuous use through the Revolution, the Grand Jury reported it in ruinous condition in 1785 and a new station was later erected on Cockspur Island.

Tips for Finding This Site: US 80 west of Lazaretto Creek on Tybee Island.