The History Hike provides a deep dive into U.S. and world history, focusing on the Trans-Atlantic Network, early New World developments, and their connections to the Civil War and the Battle of Port Royal. The program highlights Mitchelville’s role as the first self-governed Freedman’s town and its importance in American history.

Participants will journey through Mitchelville’s inspiring legacy, learning how its residents exemplified freedom, democracy, and opportunity through self-determination. Explore how Mitchelville began as a military mission and evolved into a self-sustaining community rooted in Gullah/Geechee culture.

This experiential program immerses students in the rich, biodiverse ecosystems surrounding Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park. Through hands-on learning, games, trust-building exercises, and group activities, students will engage in a tangible exploration of Mitchelville’s history and its impact on the region. The program supplements secondary education with key historical connections, offering a deeper understanding of the corridor between Charleston and Savannah, Hilton Head’s true history, and the lasting legacy of Mitchelville.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Discover the history behind the Battle of Port Royal, Emancipation, and the Port Royal Experiment.
• Learn about the influences of historical figures like Harriet Tubman, Robert Smalls, Generals David Hunter, and Ormsby Mitchel.
• Explore the culture and daily life of Mitchelville’s residents and the significance of Fort Howell and Toni Morrison’s Bench By the Road.
• Engage in experiential learning activities designed to foster leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking.

Program Details:

• Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
• Start Time: 8:30 AM
• End Time: 10:00 AM, with parent pick-up by 10:15 AM at the Planter Stage
• Cost: $25 per person (ages 10 and up)
• Snacks and water provided 
• Minimum Group Size: 10
• Minimum 3 Business Day Advance Request

Join us for this one-of-a-kind History Hike and experience the powerful story of Mitchelville firsthand.