Hilton Head Island Launches Major Initiative to Preserve Historic Mitchelville Site

Hilton Head Island Takes Steps to Preserve Historic Mitchelville

HILTON HEAD ISLAND – Exciting news is buzzing through the coastal community of Hilton Head Island! A vibrant piece of history is being safeguarded for future generations, thanks to a recent effort by the Beaufort County’s Green Space Committee to acquire a 26-acre parcel of land. This land sits just across the street from the Mitchelville Freedom Park and is part of an important initiative aimed at preserving the remarkable story of Mitchelville, recognized as the first self-governed town of freedmen and refugees fleeing slavery.

Located on the island’s north end, this undeveloped gem of land has piqued the interest of town officials and council members; Mayor Alan Perry expressed deep enthusiasm for the acquisition. He remarked, “The first freedom village in the country is there and that’s a very important aspect,” emphasizing the significance of protecting this sensitive area that is part of the island’s heritage.

From Slavery to Self-Governance

For those unfamiliar with Mitchelville’s history, it dates back over 162 years to a dramatic moment in September 1862. Union soldiers launched an assault on the northeastern coast of Hilton Head, resulting in the rapid evacuation of Confederate defenders and plantation owners. Left behind were men, women, and children who had just been liberated from enslaved lives. They suddenly found themselves in a unique post-slavery environment.

As this hungry community grew, they were joined by countless others who escaped to the island. Within just a few months, with the support of abolitionist Major General Ormsby Mitchel, the formerly enslaved inhabitants created a bustling community on approximately 300 acres filled with homes, businesses, and schools. It became a lively town with around 500 houses and a population that fluctuated between 1,500 and 3,000.

Preserving a Legacy

Today, the footprint of this once-thriving town has transformed into Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, marked by a simple yet powerful sign reading, “Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park: Where Freedom Began.” But that’s not all! A recent initiative, including the unveiling of the “Ghosted Structures” in June 2024, is just the beginning of a $22.8 million preservation effort aimed at keeping this chapter of history alive.

Park executive director Ahmad Ward is passionate about the project and has shared plans for impressive additions to the park. “These folks went from being property to owning property,” he stated, highlighting the importance of this historical site not just for Hilton Head, but for South Carolina overall. Future plans for the park include reconstructions of freedmen’s houses and gardens, along with an 18,000-square-foot interpretive center boasting a view over the beautiful Port Royal Sound.

Community Support and Future Steps

While the overall cost of the land purchase is still being evaluated—estimated between $10 million and $11.75 million—the local government is committed to securing the area. Engaging the community in this effort is crucial, as many individuals are still becoming familiar with Mitchelville’s rich history and cultural relevance.

In reinforcing bonds with the community, the plans also feature a 4,000-square-foot archaeology lab and auditorium, which would open avenues for in-depth research and educational opportunities. As these plans develop, the future looks bright for the preservation and sharing of the stories of those brave men and women who founded Mitchelville.

As we watch these efforts unfold, one thing is clear—Hilton Head Island is truly dedicated to honoring, preserving, and sharing its vibrant history that echoes the deep commitment to freedom and self-governance. It’s a beautiful example of how the past shapes our present, and how it’s being carried forward into the future.