Welcome to Historic Mitchelville: the first self-governed town of formerly enslaved people in the United States. Welcome to the
Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park
Where Freedom Began This experiment is to give you freedom, position, homes, your families, property, your own soil. It seems to me a better time is coming … a better day is dawning.” - General Ormsby Mitchel, Founder of Mitchelville The Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park (HMFP) captures the energy of its former residents through interactive exhibits, programming, and tours. The Park is located on Hilton Head Island and is open for self-guided and private tours. From rare artifacts to rich oral history, come experience Mitchelville of the past, present, and future.

Upcoming Events

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Self- Guided Tours

Explore the park at your own pace and leisure. Informative signs and placards are placed around the park to guide your journey. Guided private tours are also available (by reservation only).

Events and Exhibitions

From the Praise House to the Bateau, the park features historical exhibits that will take you back in time, along with events, such as our annual Juneteenth Celebration, to celebrate the present and future.

Become a Citizen

Gain honorary citizenship to the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park (HMFP) by contributing to our efforts to keep the stories of our ancestors alive.

Hours of Operation

The park is open daily, from 6 AM to 9 PM. Discover the park through our tours, powerful events, or simply bring a picnic lunch to enjoy the beautiful coastline views.

Scenes from our Park

"This experiment is to give you freedom, position, homes, your families, property, your own soil. It seems to me a better day is coming...a better day is dawning!"
General Ormsby Mitchel
as told to Black congregants at First African Baptist Church, Mitchelville (1862)

Copyright © 2023 Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park | Hilton Head Island, South Carolina