Sardis Primitive Baptist Church was constituted on January 7, 1821 to serve the needs of the growing population in Charlton County, GA. The church was moved to its present location in 1840. On October 13, 1856, Sardis was admitted into the Alapaha River Primitive Baptist Association. The roots of the Primitive Baptist go back before the split in the Baptist Church between the Primitive and the Missionary Baptists. By Primitive, these Baptist simply mean they worship as the first Baptists did. Also, their churches, services, and way of life tend to be simpler in comparison to some of today’s ways.
After touring the homestead take a hike down the Chesser Island Boardwalk through the cypress trees draped with Spanish moss. Visitors will witness alligators, a variety of wading birds, and possibly sandhill cranes. All four seasons in the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge are full of variety, and you are sure to see something different each time you come! At the end of the boardwalk you will find Owl’s Roost Tower. At the top of the 40 foot tower a panoramic view of Seagrove Lake and the Chesser Wetland Prairie awaits you!
Pioneer Day
For a “Living History” experience stop by this historical site on Pioneer Day to see reenactments of the men and women of the homestead period in the Okefenokee Swamp. Demonstrations include sugar cane grinding, blacksmithing, quilting, soapmaking, thread spinning, and storytelling. If you still don’t feel like one of the pioneers, taste homemade pioneer recipes and listen to the tunes of bluegrass and four-note singing. A great experience for the whole family!