The family takes refuge on Saint Helena island, South Carolina, which is in proximity of the resort community of Hilton Head island. It was, as described by Benjamin, an island occupied by slaves (some freed, but not the majority) and other groups that came to be known collectively as the Gullah. Having strong African roots, it developed its own language, which is a form of Creole. It was originally given the name Saint Elena by the Spanish in the 16th century and was the capital of the Spanish territory of Florida. It later was taken by the French and then the British.Resembling the low, rice-growing lands of west Africa, it saw the arrival of many slaves that were brought there after being captured in what is now Sierra Leone. It is surrounded by marshland particularly around the southern end and, with several virtually interlocking islands being to the east, it only has exposure to the Atlantic at the north and south ends. The location depicted in the film, while being geographically inaccurate, is near the southern end of the island on the eastern shore.Benjamin describes it as being, "right under the British noses." It did not provide much of a strategic benefit and would not have a British presence. Even so, the family would not have been difficult to find, which makes the use of it more of a narrative convenience than a practicality.
