The ruins of the old Baynard estate, the main house as well as attendant slave quarters, are permanently preserved within six-acre Baynard Ruins Park. The Baynard house, which overlooked the Calibogue Sound near the south end of the island, was built by Captain Jack Stoney as part of Braddock’s Point Plantation around 1793. The house remained in the Stoney family for several decades until, it is believed, the plantation was lost by a Stoney heir in a late-night poker game. The new owner was William Edings Baynard, a highly successful cotton planter who occupied the former Stoney home from 1840 until his death in 1849.

The Stoney-Baynard Ruins are the remnants of a grand antebellum plantation home built 1793-1810 by Captain John “Saucy Jack” Stoney. The original house was 1885 square feet, built of timber and tabby; a mixture of oyster shells, lime, and sand. In 1837, the Stoney family declared bankruptcy and William Baynard acquired the property from the bank. The home was raided during the Civil War and Union forces made it their headquarters. It burned down shortly after the Civil War. Listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, the Stoney-Baynard Ruins have captivated guests and residents with its mystery and beauty.

Directions: Located off of Plantation Drive, Baynard Ruins Park is on your right just after you pass Baynard Cove Road and Marsh Drive. If you wish, park your car at the entrance, and explore the ruins of the pre-Civil War home of William E Baynard.