In 1862, General Ormsby Mitchel, an abolitionist, wanted to create a village for the freedmen on Hilton Head Island. Mitchelville was a part of a larger system of federal involvement in the South focused on housing, work opportunities, education, and self-governance opportunities for the recently freed Blacks. (known as the Port Royal Experiment)
They worked for pay, learned to read, attended church, lived with family in their own homes, and elected town officials. They began to pursue the rights of citizenship.
Many of the residents were of Gullah descent. They collectively created a democratic community with a vibrant culture. (Gullah Geechee) It has been said that Mitchelville was an “experiment in citizenship” and a “model for reconstruction.” (and freedom, democracy, opportunity, and self-reliance)
Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park’s mission is to preserve, promote, and honor Historic Mitchelville, the first town of self-governed formerly enslaved people in the United States.
Ways to Give
+ Make an annual cash donation
Monetary donations to HMFP are tax-deductible, whether by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. You receive a donor digital badge recognizing your gift and honoring your support. Your investment in Mitchelville and its past citizens, positively impacts all Americans.
For example, with a one-time annual donation of $18.62 each year, you become a Mitchelville Citizen. Or with a $500 donation, you join the Town Council Club. Your charitable gift preserves and promotes the important story of Historic Mitchelville…where freedom began.
+ Make a gift of stock
Instead of donating cash, you can make a gift of stock. You may save on two types of taxes (capital gains tax and income tax). You preserve your cash on hand and your gift has a bigger impact. You can donate stock online safely, easily, and securely.
+ Donor Advised Fund
Monetary donations to HMFP are tax-deductible, whether by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. You receive a donor digital badge recognizing your gift and honoring your support. Your investment in Mitchelville and its past citizens, positively impacts all Americans.
For example, with a one-time annual donation of $18.62 each year, you become a Mitchelville Citizen. Or with a $500 donation, you join the Town Council Club. Your charitable gift preserves and promotes the important story of Historic Mitchelville…where freedom began.
+ Give Monthly
Join The Citizen’s Club!
With a monthly recurring donation of $18.62 or more, you join the Club. Your monthly gift sustains Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park and preserves and promotes the important story of Historic Mitchelville…the place where freedom began.
