Parks / Reconstruction Era National Historical Park
Reconstruction Era National Historical Park
National Historical Park · SC
The Reconstruction era,1861-1900 the historic period in which the United States grappled with the question of how to integrate millions of newly freed African Americans into social, political, economic, and labor systems, was a time of significant transformation. The people, places, and events in Beaufort County, South Carolina, reflect on the most important issues of this tumultuous time period.
Official NPS page →Entrance Fees
This park is fee-free.
Upcoming Events
Freedom Through Entrepreneurship
Sep 3, 2026 · 913 West Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
What the Water Witnessed: From Revolution to Reconstruction
Sep 17, 2026 · 913 West Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
Things to Do
Become A B.A.R.K. Ranger at Reconstruction Era National Historical Park
Bring your dog with you as you learn about the Reconstruction Era in Beaufort, South Carolina and they can earn their very own B.A.R.K. Ranger badge.
Become a Junior Ranger at Reconstruction Era National Historical Park
Learn how you can earn your Junior Ranger badge at Reconstruction Era National Historical Park.
Birding on the Capers Creek Trail
Grab your binoculars and bring them to the Capers Creek Trail. More than 100 different bird species have been observed along the Capers Creek Trail, in the forest surrounding Darrah Hall, and throughout the historic grounds of the Penn Center.
Explore the Lay of the Land Exhibit
Learn about the Reconstruction era in Beaufort at beyond at the "Lay of the Land" exhibit in the park visitor center in the Old Beaufort Firehouse.
Hike the Capers Creek Trail
Walk in the footsteps of Martin Luther King Jr. and the students of the Penn School on the Capers Creek Trail. This 0.25 mile trail through the woods of Saint Helena Island leads to a sweeping view of the marshes.
Join a Ranger Program at Reconstruction Era National Historical Park
Join a ranger for a program at any of our three sites: Downtown Beaufort, Darrah Hall, or Pinckney-Porter’s Chapel. Program time and days vary at each site; check our calendar to find out what’s happening.
Visit the Frontlines of Freedom Exhibit
Explore the “Frontlines of Freedom” exhibit at Pinckney-Porter’s Chapel to learn about the legacy of Camp Saxton and the 1st South Carolina Volunteers.
Visitor Centers
- Darrah Hall
- Pinckney-Porter's Chapel Visitor Contact Station
- Reconstruction Era National Historical Park Visitor Center
Source: National Park Service.