In colonial days, a shipyard stood on Shipyard Creek on the Beaulieu, or Bewlie, plantation of John Morel, at a site favorable for shipbuilding because it had access to the Vernon River and a plentiful supply of live oak nearby. In December 1774, the shipbuilder Daniel Giroud built the brig Bewlie there, a vessel of 200 tons burden capable of overseas trade, and the Georgia Gazette reported at its launching that judges considered it well built and made of the best materials, especially its frame. During the American Revolution, Giroud also assisted in constructing several Continental row galleys that served in Georgia waters.