The Ghosted Structures at Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park offer a unique glimpse into the homes and lives of the formerly enslaved people who built the first self-governed town of freedmen in the United States. After the Battle of Port Royal, these individuals fled plantations and found refuge with the Union army, forming the resilient community of Mitchelville. By 1865, 464 homes had been built, housing a thriving population of 3,000 residents. Today, the Ghosted Structures are life-sized metal frameworks that align with the original layout of the town, giving visitors a sense of its size and scale. These outlines, along with interpretive panels, showcase the daily lives and stories of Mitchelville’s residents. The exhibit preserves the historic street grid designed by the Army Corps of Engineers, allowing guests to walk through the town as it once stood.

Key Features:

  • Metal Frameworks: Representing the original homes, with interpretive panels offering insight into the lives of Mitchelville’s residents.
  • Historic Street Grid: Open spaces reflect the original layout, showing how the homes were arranged according to the 1860s map.
  • Interactive Learning: Walk through the ghosted homes to explore how the residents lived, worked, and built a self-sufficient community.

Visitor Details:

  • Duration: Explore at your own pace while experiencing the park.
  • Cost: Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to help preserve this historic site.
  • Accessibility: The park’s walking trails are accessible for all ages and abilities, with benches available for rest along the way.
  • Plan Your Visit: Whether you’re a history enthusiast, cultural explorer, or simply looking for a meaningful outdoor experience, the self-guided tour at Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park offers a powerful, educational journey through history.

Visit today and walk through history as you reflect on the enduring legacy of this groundbreaking community.