The Pawleys Island hammock was first made in the late eighteen hundreds and is named after a well known summer resort on the South Carolina coast. Captain Joshua Ward, a riverboat pilot was known at that time for transporting rice and supplies along the South Carolina coast. It is said that Captain Ward slept on grass-filled mattresses, but found them uncomfortable and unfavorable in the heat. Wanting a much cooler and comfortable place to sleep, and after many unsuccessful attempts, he invented a cotton roped hammock using wooden spreaders without knots. His invention is the Pawleys Island hammock which is still popular today.
Materials
The Pawley's Island hammock is crafted from the finest quality of materials available, and still woven exactly like it was over 100 years ago. This is why the Pawleys Island hammock is one of the well-made and durable hammocks you will find. Two different types of rope are used in making these hammocks; the traditional all-cotton natural rope, known for its comfort and coolness, or the more weather proof soft spun polyester rope. The custom designed stretcher bars are constructed from seasoned Carolina red oak. The oak is then steamed, bent, drilled, sanded, and varnished, all to assist in achieving a rhythmic sway and to add to the stability by spreading the rope evenly.
Pawleys Island craftsman
In the weaving room, where Pawleys Island hammocks are knitted, you will find yourself mesmerized by the rhythmic motion of the skilled craftsmen. While weaving the rope in and out, these craftsmen make symmetric patterns and offer a touch of beauty to the amazing and interesting craft. Once the main part of the hammock is woven, it is finished by attaching it to the strong, plaited ends strung through the oak stretcher bars and tied in knots to the hammock strands. At final inspection, a traditional metal tag is attached to the hammock to give its authenticity as an Original Pawleys Island hammock.
