A Town Built by Freed People During the Civil War
Hi everyone,
Before tomorrow’s essay goes out, I wanted to share a short video I posted about Mitchelville, the first self-governing town founded by formerly enslaved people during the Civil War.
The story is remarkable. In 1862, freed people on Hilton Head Island began building homes, creating schools, electing leaders, and practicing democracy in real time.
In other words, in places like Mitchelville Reconstruction began during the Civil War…not just after it.
You can watch the short video here:
Tomorrow’s essay will take this story further and explore why Mitchelville matters. This isn’t merely a fascinating historical episode. It’s an example of Black ingenuity, cooperation, and political imagination.
Enjoy! Talk to you soon.
The Posh History Professor