Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park

Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park is a beautiful and significant destination located at 229 Beach City Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926. This park is a tribute to the first self-governed town established by freed slaves after the Civil War.

In 1862, Union troops captured Hilton Head Island, and soon thereafter, they began freeing slaves who had been held on the island’s plantations. These freed slaves were faced with the challenge of finding a place to live and work in a society that still discriminated against them. In response, the Union Army established the Freedmen’s Village on the island in 1863. More about May River Flooring

The Freedmen’s Village was a self-sufficient community that was home to nearly 1,500 freed slaves. It was the first of its kind in the United States and served as a model for other communities that were established for freed slaves in the South. The village included schools, churches, hospitals, and even a government with elected officials.

In 1864, the village was renamed Mitchelville in honor of Union General Ormsby Mitchel. The name Mitchelville is still used to refer to the community that was established there.

In 2002, the town of Hilton Head Island established the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park to honor the history of the freed slaves who lived in the community. The park is located on the site of the original Freedmen’s Village and includes a number of historical exhibits and landmarks.

One of the highlights of the park is the Mitchelville Preservation Project, which is a group of volunteers who work to restore and preserve the historic structures in the park. The group has restored several of the original buildings in the village, including the Old Post Office, the Old Fire Station, and the Old School.

The park also includes a number of memorials to honor the history of the freed slaves who lived in Mitchelville. One such memorial is the Liberty Oak, which was planted in 1865 to symbolize the freedom and independence of the freed slaves. The oak is now over 150 years old and is a popular spot for visitors to the park.

Another important feature of the park is the Freedom Trail, which is a self-guided tour of the park’s historical landmarks. The trail includes stops at the Old Post Office, the Old School, and the Old Fire Station, as well as other important sites in the village. Up next is Pirates of Hilton Head

In addition to its historical significance, the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a number of hiking trails, a playground, and a fishing pier. It is also home to a number of wildlife species, including rabbits, squirrels, and a variety of bird species.

Overall, the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park is a beautiful and meaningful destination that is well worth a visit for anyone interested in American history or outdoor recreation. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of the freed slaves who established the first self-governed town for freed slaves in the United States and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for civil rights and equality.