CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – Part of a historically Black community in Charleston County will now be permanently protected through collaboration with a nonprofit.

Red Top Park, which is one piece of the Red Top community and the former site of the Red Top Rosenwald School built in 1927, now has permanent preservation in its future.

“This protection ensures the property will continue to serve the local community as it has for the last 100 years,” Sam Seawell, community lands director at Lowcountry Land Trust, said. “Owned and operated by the Red Top Improvement Association, this community-owned land will not only preserve the existing park but also lay a path forward for its continued prosperity. It will provide a truly unique, publicly accessible open space that features cultural and historical interpretation highlighting the significance of the property and the Red Top community.”

Lowcountry Land Trust leaders called the park an “irreplaceable piece of community-owned land,” citing the preservation as an opportunity to celebrate both the historic and cultural legacy of the Red Top Community.

“Established by formerly enslaved people and their descendants, the Red Top community has long served as a symbol of resilience, heritage and shared identity. The property will now remain publicly accessible and will continue to serve as a gathering space for generations to come,” the nonprofit said in a release.

“The Red Top Community extends heartfelt gratitude to our fellow nonprofit partners: Charleston County Greenbelt Program, South Carolina Conservation Bank and the Lowcountry Land Trust whose generous support has helped secure the future of the Red Top Park—a cherished space that holds deep historical significance and collective memory for generations within our Black Settlement community,” Melody Dover, DHA, Red Top Improvement Association’s President, said. “This park is more than green space—it is a living testament to our heritage, resilience and the stories that have shaped our identity. Through collaboration and shared commitment of these organizations, we are able to protect this landmark for future generations and ensure it remains a place of reflection, celebration and inspiration.”

In addition to its historical significance, the preservation of the property will also protect critical habitats that are connected to the Stono River and Rantowles Creek. Its permanent protection will add to the ecological integrity of that area and those surrounding it.

The protection of Red Top Park was partially made possible by funding from the Charleston County Greenbelt Program and the South Carolina Conservation Bank. The nonprofit credits the leadership of the Red Top Improvement Association and the support of the Conservation Voters of South Carolina for the full success of this project.

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