Explore Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park

When people think of Hilton Head Island, they often think of the miles of sandy beaches, dozens of top-notch golf courses, and playing tennis or pickleball.  Fewer people tend to think of Hilton Head as a cultural tourism destination, but visiting Hilton Head for cultural tourism is gaining in popularity as it is rich in history and culture.  One can really explore music, food, art, and history here! There are plenty of historic sites and museums that you can visit while on vacation to Hilton Head. If you are looking for something to do beyond fun in the sun, dig a little deeper into cultural heritage and explore the Gullah Geechee people, the native people of the Island, and the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park. 

What is Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park? 

Mitchelville Freedom Park is a historic site located on the north end of Hilton Head, near the airport. It commemorates Mitchelville, the first self-governed town of formerly enslaved African Americans established during the Civil War. The story is incredible and one that is not widely known, but should be! In fact, up until recently the story of Mitchelville wasn’t even taught as part of South Carolina curriculum. A concerted effort has been made to change that as it is an uplifting and encouraging story. It is considered the birthplace of freedom! 

Founded in 1862 by Union forces and freedmen, Mitchelville was significant because it represented a pioneering effort toward African American self-determination and community building during Reconstruction. The town provided freed slaves with a degree of independence, land, and the opportunity to govern themselves, which was groundbreaking at the time. It was the first settlement of formerly freed slaves – the first of its kind anywhere in the United States and it was not only successful but it thrived. 

Mitchelville Freedom Park today serves as a historical site and educational resource, honoring the resilience and contributions of the African American community that settled there. It features interpretive exhibits, reconstructed structures, and historical markers that tell the story of Mitchelville and its importance in American history.  You can visit the site and explore the history of where freedom began.  Visitors leave feeling empowered, uplifted, and rather than feeling dread about a story of slavery, many people often leave feeling hopeful – as this was the start of African American’s long journey towards a more just and free society in the United States. 

Self-Guided Tours 

Visit the park for a self-guided tour! Check out this link for more information: https://exploremitchelville.org/self-guided-tours. The park is open daily from 6 AM to 9PM.  There are informative signs and placards that will help you on your visit.  You can check out the ghost structures that have recently been erected. They are wire framed structures that outline the praise houses, schoolhouse, homes and shops that once stood on the land. There are plans for a future on-site educational museum, be sure to check out the master plan and future plans for the site. Don’t miss the Bateau and a visit to the water. The land is special, you can almost feel the rich history.  

For those particularly interested and wanting a deeper experience, you can also reserve a private tour by visiting the website, too.  

Special Events & Features 

FUN FACT: A traveling statue of Harriet Tubman, “Journey to Freedom”, was displayed recently on-site, a true honor to have at the location.  Tubman spent time on Hilton Head, acting as a spy and nurse, ultimately leading a covert mission in Confederate territory that freed slaves and destroyed the plantations they worked on. Many of the liberated residents went on to become Mitchelville residents. When you visit Mitchelville Freedom Park, you will enter on Harriet Tubman Way. The Town of Hilton Head Island named the street after her in 2022, to celebrate her 200th birthday. 

Don't miss the 11th Annual Juneteenth Celebration at Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park coming up this June. Now in its 11th year, events range from an overnight camp out, a drum circle, a 5K, and the main event with food/music/vendor fair. For more information, visit their website and purchase tickets where necessary. Some events are free! https://exploremitchelville.org/upcoming-events/

If you are looking for something to do beyond the beach and traditional activities typically thought of on Hilton Head, visit Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park for cultural tourism that will educate and excite you on your trip to Hilton Head. Feel inspired by this incredible story and the birthplace of freedom in the United States. Stand on the land where Harriet Tubman once stood and feel the power of the land itself. 

https://exploremitchelville.org

Entrance to the park is free. Donations are accepted and encouraged.