Awendaw is a quaint little town in Charleston County north of the historic city of Charleston, South Carolina. Its population is less than 1500 people, was incorporated in 1992 and its mayor, William H. Alston, was named African-American Mayor of the year in 2005.

Awendaw was named by the Seewee Indian tribe who settled there and occupied the area for 4,000 years. It is home to the “Spanish Fort” a large mound of oyster shells built by the Seewee tribe. Most of the mound is still intact, but much was destroyed to construct roads and homes for the citizens of Awendaw.

The town was heavily damaged by Hurricane Hugo in 1989, but was rebuilt and remains a popular tourist attraction. To many Awendaw citizens crabbing is a hobby as well as a way of life. The Blue Crab Festival held in the summer each year is a popular event and a much needed source of income.

The Center for Birds of Prey is Awendaw’s most popular attraction. It is an avian conservation center that operates a medical clinic for injured birds of prey. The Center for Birds of Prey is a first line responder for oiled birds in the event of an oil spill along the South Atlantic Coast. At any time, visitors can view magnificent convalescing Eagles, Falcons, Hawks, Owls and Vultures.