Coligny: The Heart of Hilton Head Island
Known as Hilton Head Island’s Downtown, Coligny Plaza is the ultimate destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. For generations, locals and visitors alike have gathered here to enjoy live music, fresh seafood, and boutique shopping nestled in the island’s vibrant atmosphere.
But beyond its lively streets and iconic establishments lies a rich history. The Coligny story is deeply entwined with Hilton Head Island’s growth and begins with the vision of one man, Norris Richardson, and the legacy his family has carried forward.
The Man Behind the Vision
Norris Richardson’s career began humbly, sweeping floors at a grocery store as a young man. Through grit and determination, he built a flourishing empire, rising to management and eventually building his own chain of grocery stores in Thomasville, Georgia, with his wife, Lois.
It was during family vacations to Hilton Head Island that Norris saw immense potential in the untouched beauty of the Island’s dunes and dirt roads. Inspired by this untamed landscape, he set out to establish something special.
A Legacy of “Firsts”
Long before Hilton Head Island became synonymous with world-class beaches, golf courses, and luxurious resorts, and even before the first bridge connected the island to the mainland, Norris recognized its promise. In 1956, with materials shipped in by barge, he opened Forest Beach Market, the island’s very first grocery store. Its first customer? None other than Charles Fraser, who would later develop Sea Pines.
Forest Beach Market quickly evolved into Coligny Plaza, a hub of innovation and community. It offered Hilton Head’s first bakery, clothing store, hair salon, laundromat, pharmacy and more. Even the Island’s first real estate office and first bike rental shop were established here. Each store and service was a building block in creating what we now recognize as Hilton Head Island’s vibrant downtown.
Building a Community, Not Just a Plaza
Norris’ vision extended far beyond business; he was committed to building a community. This dedication has been upheld by his son, JR Richardson. JR took the reins of the family business and continued to nurture Coligny’s growth. From volunteering his time on local boards to shaping the Island’s future through initiatives like Mayor’s Vision 2025 Task Force, JR has played a pivotal role in ensuring the island thrives. His wife, Leslie, is equally devoted, contributing her time and energy to numerous charities and community boards.
Lois Richardson, who lived to 102, was a living testament to the family’s love for the island. She shared stories of the early days of Hilton Head, when its progress was just beginning to unfold.
Coligny Today
Under the care of JR and Leslie, Coligny has not only flourished. It has also remained true to its roots as a community hub. It began as a single market and is now the beating heart of Hilton Head Island. Today, the spirit of innovation and togetherness continues to thrive.
Today, the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and celebrations are held in Coligny Plaza. The Rock-N-Ribs concerts are held in its parking lot every fall, and Santa still arrives via helicopter each year. And every summer, families return, generation after generation, to browse the kiosks, catch some family-friendly live entertainment, dine, and make endless memories – all because of Coligny!
Over 67 years since Norris first saw opportunity among the wild dunes, Coligny still stands as Hilton Head Island’s premier destination and offers something for everyone.
Most importantly, it remains what it has always been: Hilton Head Island’s Downtown. Visit Coligny and see why it’s more than a destination; it’s a story that continues to shape Hilton Head Island’s future.
Source: https://colignyplaza.com/our-history/.
