History of The Green

The Green is an open plot of land near the center of St. Helena Island at a place commonly called the Corner. The Green is significant both historically as the long-established site of community meetings, celebrations, and other gatherings, and for its potential to yield information in historical archaeology.

The Green was the site of the first Darrah Hall, an auditorium and community center built ca. 1885 by Penn School. After the hurricane in August 1893 many homeless refugees crowded into the building seeking shelter. They built fires inside the hall, one of these spread and destroyed Darrah. Since that time the Green has continued to serve as a gathering place for the people of St. Helena Island. Such activities as Emancipation Day, celebrating the adoption of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863; the annual Farmers’ Fair; and community sings were held all or in part at the Green.

One of the most eagerly anticipated celebrations there in the early twentieth century was on Labor Day, signifying the end of the summer and beginning of the school year.  It was sponsored by the Young Men’s Social Club and featured foods of all kinds, games, band music and dancing. (1)  Now The Green is one of the favorite locations for celebrating the Penn Center Heritage Days Celebration held annually the second weekend of November on the Island.  The park is also a favorite place for people in the community to gather and st and is also where many organizations hold events and activities for the public. 

The Green was listed in the National Register of Historic Places for Beaufort , SC on October 6, 1988.