Compass Rose Park — Attraction in Hilton Head Island

Unveiled in 2011, sculpted by two artists (one for the man, the other for the alligator) a life-size bronze statue depicts a man in a hat and business suit, using an umbrella as a walking stick, cheerfully striding next to a big alligator. The guy looks like he's in his fifties, and his outfit seems to be from the 1920s. In fact, it's a reproduction of a photograph from 1962, and the man, Charles Fraser, was only 32.

Fraser was the fortunate son of a retired, well-to-do Army general and landowner. Sent to Hilton Head Island to cut down its trees, Fraser instead saw its potential as a resort destination. He convinced his dad to send him to Harvard Law School and then sell him the island. He built golf courses and gated subdivisions, transforming Hilton Head from a rural backwater of formerly enslaved African-Americans (and alligators) into a fashionable enclave for rich white people. He died in 2002, scouting new islands for new golf courses and subdivisions, when the engine on his yacht exploded.

People like to pose with the statue, imitating Fraser's saucy walk or straddling the alligator. In real life, the gator, nicknamed "Albert," disappeared not long after the photo was taken, removed by investors who didn't want him on their golf course. The rumor, never confirmed, was that Albert had eaten...

Compass Rose Park is located on the corner of New Orleans Rd and Pope Ave. It is right off the bike path and has a covered pavilion with signs discussing the modern day history of Hilton Head starting with Charles Fraser. There are also on site swings near a reflecting pool and a life size statue of Sea Pines founder Charles Fraser walking next to an alligator. The sculpture is based on a famous photo from the Saturday evening post in 1962. It is a great stopping point on a bike ride or place for a picnic lunch from one of the many nearby...

Great small park right near Coligny Beach from the 🚲 bike path. They have ♿ handicap accessible 🚻 restrooms, access, and a great statue with an alligator and man that kicked off the Hilton Head National obsession. Great 🏞️ park for 📸 photography and perfectly situated near...