The Legacy and Resilience of Mitchelville: A Gullah Geechee Story

In 1862, during the American Civil War, formerly enslaved individuals on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, established Mitchelville, the first self-governed city for freed people in the United States. Named after Union Army Major General Ormsby Mitchel, Mitchelville emerged as part of the Port Royal Experiment, which aimed to transition from slavery to a new societal structure. The Gullah Geechee people, as they came to be known, created their own homes, elected officials, and mandated education for their children, marking a significant shift in their autonomy and governance.

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The documentary _The Spirit We Move With_, directed by Andrew Maguire and executive-produced by Lola Campbell, highlights the history of Mitchelville and its relevance to Gullah Geechee descendants today. Premiering in early February at Mitchelville Freedom Park, the film aims to capture the resilience and ongoing impact of the Gullah community on Hilton Head Island. Campbell, a sixth-generation native, emphasizes the importance of storytelling in preserving their culture, stating, “It started there: let’s get some stories of people.”

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The film delves into Gullah Geechee traditions, emphasizing the need to acknowledge their living culture amidst external interest. Campbell notes that while outsiders are eager to learn about their history, this often overlooks the community's current struggles, including cultural assimilation pressures and land loss. Since 1995, Gullah Geechee land ownership on Hilton Head has decreased by approximately 70%, with the demographic shift from 98% Black in 1880 to about 77% white today. This loss has prompted the community to fight for the preservation of their heritage and lands.

The Guardian

Maguire's approach to filmmaking involved a small crew, fostering intimacy and trust within the community. He described filming a family dinner as a unique experience that highlighted the openness of the Gullah people. Campbell remarked on the responsibility of accurately representing their culture, stating, “There was definitely a huge responsibility put on me.” The documentary aims to ensure that all community members, especially younger generations, understand their history and cultural significance.

The Guardian

Storytelling is central to the Gullah Geechee culture, serving as a means of passing down traditions and values. Campbell asserts, “It’s the way that we pass down from generation to generation,” emphasizing that this practice is vital for cultural survival. The documentary encapsulates this sentiment, illustrating how the Gullah Geechee continue to thrive and adapt while maintaining their cultural identity.

The Guardian

The legacy of Mitchelville and the Gullah Geechee people is a testament to their resilience and commitment to preserving their heritage. Through projects like _The Spirit We Move With_, the community seeks to ensure that their stories and traditions endure, highlighting their ongoing journey as a living culture.

The Guardian