Freedomland Rises: An Ancestral Legacy Forged in Forest, Preserved for Generations

In the heart of Marion County, South Carolina, a profound victory has unfolded, securing a vital piece of American history and an enduring legacy of resilience. The storied Freedomland community, born from the dreams of formerly enslaved people, and parts of the historic Woodberry Plantation, have been forever protected through a landmark acquisition.

This 50-acre tract, purchased for $1 million by the Open Space Institute (OSI), promises to transform into the Freedomland Community Forest, a beacon of cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, and racial equity.

For generations, the Britton’s Neck community has cherished the land known as Freedomland.

It's not just soil and trees; it's a testament to self-determination, a sanctuary carved out by African Americans who, after the Civil War, purchased plots and built lives, schools, and churches on land once part of the sprawling Woodberry Plantation. This historic settlement represents a rare and invaluable example of post-Civil War Black landownership and communal strength, a living narrative etched into the landscape itself.

Yet, this sacred ground faced modern threats.

The specter of development and unsustainable timber harvesting loomed, threatening to erase the physical remnants of a history hard-won and deeply felt. The call to action resonated deeply within the community, especially among descendants who understood the irreplaceable value of their ancestral home.

Enter the Open Space Institute, a conservation powerhouse with a vision for protecting land that tells essential stories.

Recognizing the dual significance of ecological preservation and cultural heritage, OSI stepped forward. Their acquisition of the tract, strategically located along the Great Pee Dee River, ensures that the land's natural beauty and its profound human history will endure. The collaboration with local leaders, like John Woodberry, a direct descendant who serves on OSI's South Carolina advisory board, was instrumental, underscoring the power of community-driven conservation.

The vision for the Freedomland Community Forest is expansive.

It will be a place of reflection and remembrance, where visitors can connect with the stories of those who built lives from adversity. It will serve as an outdoor classroom, offering educational opportunities about local ecology and African American history. Plans include developing walking trails, interpretive signage, and spaces for community gatherings, all while managing the forest sustainably to preserve its natural health and biodiversity.

This achievement extends far beyond the boundaries of Marion County.

It stands as a powerful symbol in the broader struggle for racial equity and the recognition of marginalized histories. By preserving Freedomland, we are not just saving a parcel of land; we are validating a people's journey, honoring their sacrifices, and ensuring that their contributions to the fabric of America are never forgotten.

It provides a model for how conservation can intersect with social justice, creating spaces that heal, educate, and empower.

As the sun sets over the Great Pee Dee, casting long shadows across the newly protected acres, the spirit of Freedomland shines brighter than ever. It is a testament to the power of community, the dedication of conservationists, and the enduring human spirit that, against all odds, chose freedom and built a legacy that will inspire generations to come.