The Jamestown Story

The year 1865 marked a transformative moment in American history with the end of the Civil War and the abolition of slavery. For Ervin James, this new freedom sparked a powerful vision: to create a self-sustaining community where Black families could own land and build a legacy that would last for generations. This vision would take root in what would become Jamestown, South Carolina—a testament to resilience, determination, and the fundamental right to own property and shape one's own destiny. Ervin James's dream was not just about land ownership; it was about creating a foundation for freedom, education, and prosperity that his descendants would inherit and protect for over 150 years.

In 1870, Ervin James accomplished what many thought impossible: he negotiated the purchase of 109 acres of land from Eli McKissick, a white landowner. This transaction was remarkable not just for its size or price ($700), but because it was technically illegal under the prevailing laws and customs of the post-Civil War South. Despite the legal and social barriers designed to prevent Black land ownership, Ervin James and Eli McKissick found a way forward. This courageous act of defiance against unjust laws laid the foundation for what would become the thriving community of Jamestown. The land would eventually grow to over 240 acres and remain in the James family for more than 150 years—a living testament to Ervin's vision and determination. This land purchase was more than a real estate transaction; it was an act of resistance, a statement of self-determination, and the birth of a legacy that would inspire generations.

January 23, 1871, stands as one of the most significant dates in Jamestown history. On this day, Eli McKissick and Ervin James formalized their agreement with the signing of an official deed, legally transferring 109 acres of land for the sum of $700. This deed transformed what had been a risky, technically illegal transaction into a legitimate property transfer—one that would be recognized and protected by law. The document itself is a remarkable artifact, representing not just a change in land ownership but a shift in the possibilities available to formerly enslaved people in the post-Civil War South. The land, located in what is now Mars Bluff in Florence County (5 miles east of Florence), would become the heart of a thriving African American community. The deed signing marked the official beginning of Jamestown—a community that would grow to include 22 wooden cabins and buildings, and eventually be recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. This legal foundation established by Ervin James ensured that his descendants could maintain ownership and build upon his vision for over a century and a half.

The year 2007 marked a watershed moment for Jamestown with two significant milestones: recognition by Congressman James Clyburn and the establishment of the Jamestown Foundation SC. Congressman Clyburn, a prominent South Carolina leader and advocate for African American history preservation, formally recognized Jamestown's remarkable story of continuous Black land ownership spanning over 135 years. His recognition brought national attention to the community and highlighted its importance in understanding the broader history of Black land ownership, economic independence, and community building in the post-Civil War South. Following this recognition, the Jamestown Foundation SC was officially established with a clear mission: to preserve, protect, and promote the history and legacy of Jamestown for future generations. Led by Terry James, the great-great-great grandson of founder Ervin James, the Foundation took on the critical work of maintaining the historic structures, documenting the community's history, and sharing its story with the public. The Foundation's establishment ensured that the preservation of Jamestown would no longer rest solely on the shoulders of individual family members but would become a coordinated, organized effort with the resources and structure needed for long-term success. This dual recognition—from both the political sphere and through formal organization—positioned Jamestown to move from a family legacy to a preserved historic site of national significance.

In 2013, the Jamestown Foundation SC launched the first public Celebrate Jamestown Reunion, opening the community's rich history to the broader public for the first time. This inaugural event established what would become a beloved annual tradition, held every last weekend in July. The reunion brings together James family descendants from across the country, local community members, historians, and visitors interested in learning about this remarkable story of perseverance and preservation. The multi-day event features historical reenactments, storytelling sessions, artisan demonstrations, a banquet, and a church service—all designed to honor the past while celebrating the present. More than just a family gathering, the Celebrate Jamestown Reunion serves multiple purposes: it educates the public about African American history and land ownership, raises funds for ongoing preservation efforts, and strengthens connections between descendants who have scattered across the country but maintain deep ties to their ancestral home. The success of the first reunion demonstrated the power of Jamestown's story to inspire and educate. It showed that the community's history resonated not just with family members, but with anyone interested in understanding the full complexity of American history—including stories of resilience, resistance, and the fight for economic independence that are often overlooked in mainstream narratives. This annual tradition continues to grow, bringing new visitors to Jamestown each year and ensuring that Ervin James's vision continues to inspire generations yet to come.

Today, more than 150 years after Ervin James signed the deed to his land, the Jamestown Foundation SC actively works to preserve this extraordinary legacy. Under the leadership of Executive Director Terry James and a dedicated team of supporters, the Foundation maintains the 240+ acres and 22 historic wooden structures that tell the story of one of America's longest continuously Black-owned communities. **The Jan James House Restoration** is the Foundation's flagship project. This historic structure represents not just architectural heritage but the lived experience of generations of the James family. Restoration efforts focus on preserving original materials and construction techniques while ensuring the building's stability for future generations. **National Register of Historic Places** status has brought increased recognition and support for preservation efforts, but the work requires ongoing fundraising and community engagement. The Foundation actively seeks donations, grants, and partnerships to fund restoration projects, archaeological research, and educational programming. **Educational Outreach** remains a core mission. Through the annual Celebrate Jamestown Reunion, workshops, and collaborations with historians like archaeologist Christopher Barkin, the Foundation ensures that Jamestown's story reaches new audiences. The community has been featured in articles, documentaries, and academic research, including coverage in SC Living Magazine and WPDE News. **The Family Commitment** continues unbroken. Terry James maintains his ancestors' principle: "No selling around here. None, zero, zilch." This commitment ensures that the land Ervin James fought to own in 1870 will remain in family hands, serving as both a memorial to the past and a living community for the future. Jamestown stands as a testament to what can be achieved when determination meets opportunity, when vision is passed from generation to generation, and when a community refuses to let its story be forgotten. The ongoing preservation work ensures that this remarkable legacy will inspire and educate for generations to come.