Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park — Attraction in Hilton Head Island

Any visit to Hilton Head Island South Carolina, would not be complete without visiting this historic site. This site has a story as old and as rich as the soil you walk on. It is truly a testament to the sacrifice, resilience and perseverance of this nation’s very first freedmen, and thanks to The Mitchelville Preservation Project, today, anyone visiting Hilton Head can relive it. These new citizens industrially built homes with neatly arranged streets, elected their own officials, developed laws, built an economy, and implemented mandatory education for their children. It has been suggested, that Mitchelville was so successful, that the famous Underground Railroad freedom fighter, Harriet Tubman, was sent to Hilton Head to see this bustling town, so she could share the story of Mitchelville’s self-governed success with future freedmen towns. Situated on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Mitchelville is a jewel of history and folklore within the Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor that forms the roots of the African-American's contribution to the heritage of freedom in America. The site's trees grow right up to the beach and there is some grass in the water that creates beautiful morning sunrises, and dramatic evening sunsets. It’s a great place for little explorers who like to look for shells, driftwood and animal tracks in the sand. Hilton Head Island may be famous for golf and romantic vacation getaways, but it is also a place that possesses remarkable...

Went on the Mitchellville 10AM oral history tour. It's the first established and self governed Freedman establishment prior to Emancipation. The buildings are reconstructed but Ms Cora who normally does the reenactments for Harriet Tubman gave us a walking tour including several praise songs that led to an almost 2H tour. While this was omitted from my American history classes the African American family of 9 from Brooklyn on my tour had heard of Mitchellville.

This historic site is ADA compliant for those using an outdoor wheelchair or outdoor wheeled walker. There are benches in front of most of the buildings allowing people to rest between the stops. There is a handicap accessible bathroom in the park. I have osteoarthritis in the feet and appreciated being able to sit as we moved from building...

The story of Mitchelville is fascinating and underrated. Why this place is not given its rightful place in both national and state history books is beyond me.

Freedom Park is a lovely, unassuming little spot highlighting the history of Mitchelville. Several small structures model aspects of everyday life in the historic town, from home life to religious assembly. Each exhibit has accompanying informational text on display, some with photos. There is a nice open area under the shade of some trees. The pier out to the covered marsh observation area is great—a nice spot to rest in the shade, watch wildlife, and take some photos. I look forward to...