Gone With The Tide: The Vanishing Gullahs and Geechees

Many Americans are unaware that along the South Carolina and Georgia coast lies a culture more strongly rooted in African ways than any other in America. In quiet self-sufficiency, the Gullahs and Geechees lived off the water and the land on isolated barrier sea islands with their own unique language, lifestyle and culture. It was life in a simpler time with pristine saltwater for fishing, crabbing and gathering oysters; virgin maritime forests; sand roads and wild game. In many ways the Gullahs and Geechees are part of the modern world but in other ways they have preserved the traditions of their ancestors. However, if the culture dies, a significant part of the culture of the low country of South Carolina and Georgia will be lost along with African Americans' purest link to their past. To this day, the Gullah and Geechee people are trying to hold steadfastly to the way of life of their African ancestors, passing on their traditions from one generation to another and this book will inspire others to keep their story alive for future generations. Illustrated with original Gullah/Geechee art by the author, Pearce W. Hammond, this book contains an abundance of historical information about the Gullah and Geechee people of South Carolina and Georgia along with extensive examples of their unique language, superstitions, folklore, and customs and traditions. In addition, there is a section on low country cooking with recipes and Gullah cooking related terms.

Pearce W. Hammond was born and raised in Savannah, Georgia is an accomplished writer, artist and photographer. In his youth he spent a lot of time on the coastal waters of the low country and attributes his interest in writing and art to his famed Savannah-born uncle, Johnny Mercer, who wrote over 1,000 songs and won four Academy Awards. When not writing songs, Johnny Mercer was also a talented painter and could speak and understand the Gullah/Geechee language which fascinated the young Hammond. The author has written several other books that include a humorous book about dogs; a humorous book about old age and senior moments; a humorous book about frequent flying; and a book on the Gullahs of South Carolina which is illustrated with his original paintings. His art has been featured in many local and regional publications. He and his wife, Anne, now reside on the tidal waters of the Chechessee River in Okatie, South Carolina.