Remember the name Breach Inlet. It is more than just a scenic waterway. This place whispers tales of daring exploits and pivotal moments in American history.
Breach Inlet separates Sullivan’s Island from the Isle of Palms. It is a natural channel cut by strong tidal currents. These currents create a channel that runs one to two fathoms deep.
In 1776, Breach Inlet played a crucial role in the Revolutionary War. British General Sir Henry Clinton planned a surprise attack. He wanted to raid the colonial army on Sullivan’s Island. But many British troops drowned in Breach Inlet’s swirling waters. They were also hit by musket fire from Colonel William Thompson’s men. The colonial patriots bravely defended Fort Moultrie. They soundly defeated the British forces. This forced the British fleet to retreat from coastal South Carolina. Breach Inlet was much wider then with shallow sandbars.
During the Civil War, Breach Inlet again became a stage for military operations. In 1864, George E. Dixon chose Breach Inlet as the new base for the H. L. Hunley. The Hunley was the Confederate Army’s secret weapon. Basing the Hunley in Charleston Harbor was too risky. Any sea trial near Fort Sumter would attract Union blockaders.
Breach Inlet’s location on Sullivan’s Island had advantages. It was near Mount Pleasant. This offered a welcome change from the rustic conditions across Charleston Harbor at Fort Johnson. The inlet’s comma shape directed tidal currents toward the Atlantic Ocean. This aimed the Hunley directly at the Union squadron.
Departing through Breach Inlet on an ebb tide could be dangerous. But by waiting for slack water, the Hunley’s crew could safely navigate the inlet. This gave them a four-to-six-hour window to attack the Yankee blockade. They could then catch the flood tide back to Breach Inlet.
Today, Breach Inlet offers a different kind of experience. You can visit Thomson Park on Sullivan’s Island. From here, you can stroll down to the beach. But be warned. Swimming in Breach Inlet is prohibited. The currents are very dangerous. A hefty fine awaits those who ignore the warning.
Looking across the inlet, you can see where the tidal current meets the in-shore eddy. Container ships on the horizon can substitute for the blockading Yankee gunboats. Standing here, you can almost feel the shades of history surrounding you. You will feel both Union and Confederate.
Battery Marshall once guarded Breach Inlet. Its sixteen guns protected both the inlet and Conch Creek. Today, beachfront condominiums occupy the site of Battery Marshall’s revetments and trenches. Conch Creek no longer echoes with nautical commands. Now, fishing charter captains hurry their customers along.
The H.L. Hunley Bridge passes over Breach Inlet. Walk or bike it for an aerial view. You will see the inlet and the elegant homes lining the shore.
Breach Inlet’s story continues to evolve. It is a place where history and natural beauty converge.