“The Big Gun Shoot” – 160th Anniversary of The Battle of Port Royal Sound and the Start of Reconstruction in South Carolina
On November 7, 1861, United States military forces drove the Confederates from the Sea Islands of Beaufort County. Join Park Ranger Rich Condon at the Toni Morrison Bench at Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park on Hilton Head Island for a 90-minute presentation exploring the story of the fight that spurred Reconstruction in this region, as it was felt on the shores of Hilton Head Island, and learn of the experiences of freed people at places like Mitchelville in the wake of what became known as “the day of the big gun shoot.” At the conclusion of the formal presentation, there will be an optional guided walk out to the beach to overlook the waters where the battle took place. Round trip the walk will cover approximately one mile.
Visitors are encouraged to be prepared for weather along the coastal marsh - sunscreen and insect repellant are encouraged.
In addition, from 1 pm - 4 pm, local veterans from the Hilton Head community were present a wreath in commemoration of the Battle of Port Royal, and stand guard for three hours - the approximate duration of the battle. This will take place near the Toni Morrison Bench at Mitchelville.
Fees
This event is free to attend.
Location
Meet at Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park on Hilton Head Island
Latitude and Longitude 32.237310, -80.687960
Schedule
Date:
Time:
Duration:
Contact Information
Chris Barr
843-441-3156
Contact Us
Event Type
- Partner Program
- Talk
- Walk