In the late 1800s, W.T. Chesser and his family settled a small island on the eastern edge of the Okefenokee Swamp. The Chesser's were a rugged family, carving out a life in the often harsh conditions of the area. The homesteaded is a 592-acre island in the Okefenokee Swamp where members of the family lived here until 1958. The sandy soil is kept clear of vegetation to reduce fire danger and make it easier to spot snakes.