Assumption Island is a small, uninhabited island located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 10 miles away from the coast of South Carolina. It is also the name of a small community on the island, which is home to about 60 people.
Assumption Island is an ecologically sensitive location, as it has been designated as an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society.
Contents
All About Of Assumption Island
History
Assumption Island first appears on maps in the late seventeenth century, when it was known as “Gum island.” The island’s land was purchased by a group of religious women from France in 1687, and they used it as a retreat. In 1768, the island became part of South Carolina State Park.
The community that exists today on Assumption Island is almost entirely descendant of those religious women who bought the island over three centuries ago.
The original buildings have been replaced or refurbished several times over the years, but much of the flavor and character of this North American off -the-beaten track island is still found in the establishments and habitats that have grown up since their foundation.
Besides Assumption Island, there are three other islands nearby: Long Beach Island, separated from ASS by a narrow channel only about 30 feet wide at high tide;
South Beach island off Stono River, which also sits between busy shipping lanes on Pungo River Bridge (30 miles south of center) and Hernando de Soto Bridge near Mount Pleasant within Intracoastal Waterway just north of James L.
King’S Resort & Marina on SC 29 to Myrtle Beach, SC; and Half Moon Island near Georgetown in Calibogue Sound between Roanoke Inlet/Intracoastal Waterway (separated by a two mile island-wide barrier island) and the Atlantic Ocean 17 miles south, connected only at low tide.
Climate
North America experiences a wide range of climate types. Island climates, including those found in the Caribbean and along the Gulf Coast, tend to be milder than coastal mainland climates. The moderating influence of sea breezes helps keep temperatures comfortable year-round.
Assumption island has a subtropical climate characterized by long, hot summers and short but humid winters with occasional heavy rainfalls.
Only one month, May, has the lowest possible temperature. Summers are humid with frequent rainfall peaking in July and August.
The island is known for a high population of sea turtles during their nesting season from early spring through fall; there are also numerous other sea birds like eagles, owls and gulls species that nest on Assumption island throughout the year as well it offers visitors some amazing birding opportunities:
Bald Eagles were once common around Allen Isle until they declined due to DDT usage which devastated their food supply (winged insects).
They’ve since made a comeback but not to numbers seen before DDT usage, eagles are still common around Allen Isle and Nesmith Point but due to lack of food sources, bald eagles can no longer be found higher up on the island in large numbers.
Culture
The island has a distinctive Creole culture. In the early days, plantation workers were brought in from Africa as slaves and their families continued to live on the island for many generations. Today, descendants of these families are still some of Assumption’s most influential citizens.
There is also a sizable Jewish community on the island that traces its roots back to 16th century North Africa. Economy Assumption island has a robust tourism industry, largely centered on its unique Boardwalk, which runs above and parallel to the island’s shores.
Most of this activity is concentrated in Port Allen and surrounding areas; however, there continues to be employment attracted by financial services outside of that area. The island can also provide school bus transportation service with educational programs as well!
Politics
The island is represented in the Louisiana House of Representatives by Democrat Cedric Richmond, who has held that seat since 1992.
In addition, Assumption Parish is part of the 5th Congressional District, which is represented in Congress by Republican Drew Hastings.
Assumption Parish is represented in the Louisiana State Senate by Republicans Angelo C. Dutcher, Jr., and Mike Walsworth.
The west side of Assumption Island is part of House District 28 (Adams-St. Mary), which seats a Democrat, John Smith, while all but three precincts are within House District 29 (Assumption).
Government Services
There is a single location on the island serviced by the United States Postal Service, which is also responsible for providing governmental services to the island. That site is known as Assumption Post Office.
Health care services are available from two hospitals located on other parts of the island: Memorial Medical Center in Port Allen and Ochsner University Hospital in New Orleans.
Electricity and water service primarily come from Entergy Corporation; however, there are a limited number of private residences that have their own generators as well.
Tourism
Tourism is a significant economic driver on the island, with Assumption Parish boasting over sixty-eight hotels and lodges.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as golfing, fishing, swimming, kayaking, parasailing and island tours. Additionally there are several restaurants that serve both local and tourist cuisine.
Transport
There is no public transportation on the island, although residents are able to use bicycles and boats to get around. There are, however, a number of public golf courses and fitness centers on the island.
Nearby Towns and cities
Port Allen, located south of the island on Prytaneau Bay, is accessible by plane. The community has a stop along Louisiana State Highway 89 that connects to New Orleans International Airport. Near Port Allen are Houma, LaPlace and Thibodaux.
Cuisine
There is a wide variety of cuisine available on the island, including Creole, Cajun and seafood. Some notable dishes include red beans and rice, jambalaya, catfish, and grits.
Conclusion
Assumption Island is an uninhabited island located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, about 260 km (160 mi) south of Puerto Rico and approximately 240 km (150 mi) south-southwest of the Virgin Islands. The island is part of the United States Virgin Islands National Park, which was established in 1976.
FAQs
1.What is the Population of Assumption Island?
Ans: There are about 60 people who live on the island.
2.Is Assumption Island a Tourist Destination?
Ans: No, it is not a tourist destination.
3.Is Transportation Available to Get to and From the Island?
Ans: Yes, there are regular ferries that travel between St Thomas in the Virgin Islands and South Carolina, which makes it easy to visit Assumption Island without having to fly or take any other type of transport.
4.What is the Climate Like on Assumption Island?
Ans: The climate on Assumption island is tropical, with temperatures averaging around 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit) year-round.
5.What Type of Wildlife Can Be Seen on the Island?
Ans: There are a variety of animals that can be found on the island, including iguanas, eagles, and parrots.
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