Discover the Origin and Meaning of Daufuskie Island’s Name.
Have you ever wondered where the name “Daufuskie” comes from? It’s actually a combination of two Muscogee, Native American words: “daufu” meaning feather, and “fuskie” meaning tip or point. The shape of the island reflects the tip of a feather, hence the name. Interestingly, it was inhabited by native people for about 9,000 years before the arrival of European colonists in the New World. Evidence of their presence exists in ancient artifacts and piles of oyster shells. Such discoveries prove the presence of Daufuskie inhabitants long ago.
Some people mistakenly believe that “Daufuskie” is Gullah for “The First Key.”
Coming in from the Atlantic, Daufuskie is one of the first islands in view. However, this is just a myth. The island had its unique name long before any plantations or slaves from West Africa appeared.
Now that you know the true meaning behind the name, take a trip to Daufuskie Island and explore its rich history and natural beauty.
