Construction of a new fort, San Marcos, started. 1588-1630 Spanish missionary activity continues on Parris Island as Spain and England try to control the area. The island eventually takes its current name from Alexander Parris. John de la Bere and his wife Jane Parris de la Bere, become the first British settlers on Parris Island. Eventually slave operated plantations are developed on Parris Island.
Residents flee the area leaving behind the majority of their slaves.
Hilton Head serves as headquarters for department of the South and the South Atlantic Blockading Squadron is stationed in the sound. Federal installations built on Hilton Head, Bay Point Island, and St. Helena Islands. Marine battalion stationed at Bay Point Island. Parris Island is the site of schools for ex-slaves and the plantations of the island are broken up into small tracts and sold to the former slaves. 1871 State quarantine station placed on Parris Island.