Charleston, S.C. – Coakley Chapel Park, a 6.5-acre property located in the historic Hamlin Beach community of Charleston County, will now be permanently protected. This achievement is the result of a grassroots effort spearheaded by the Lowcountry Land Trust, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the region’s landscapes and waterways for future generations.
Historic Significance of Coakley Chapel Park
The heart of the park is the Coakley Chapel, originally known as The Meeting House, which was established in the early 1900s by Mr. Sam Coakley. The chapel has long served as a space for prayer and community meetings. Now, it will continue to be a gathering place for the community, offering educational programs that highlight the rich Gullah Geechee culture of Hamlin Beach.
“This is the epicenter of one of the strongest aspects of Charleston County’s identity, particularly the tradition of sweetgrass baskets,” said Sam Seawell, the Lowcountry Land Trust Community Lands Director.
Funding the Purchase
The $1.9 million purchase of the park was made possible through a collaboration of several organizations, including:
Charleston County Greenbelt Program: $1,614,500
South Carolina Conservation Bank: $300,000
Gary C. Butler Family Foundation: $60,000
Atlantic Packaging: $40,000
Hamlin Beach Community: $85,000 in property value donations
The Charleston County Greenbelt Program, funded by a half-penny sales tax, supports initiatives like this one to preserve green spaces.
Preservation and Community Impact
The park not only helps protect the historical and cultural assets of the area but also serves environmental goals. As Eric Davis, Charleston County Housing Development and Land Management Director, explained, the project aligns with Greenbelt goals by preserving wetlands that mitigate flooding and stormwater. Additionally, it will provide a public green space for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Much of the Lowcountry is experiencing rapid development, and the creation of this park ensures that significant cultural and natural landmarks are protected amidst growth. Cassandra Davis, Hamlin Beach Community Association Secretary, emphasized the importance of balancing development with preservation. “Growth is necessary, but we must also protect and preserve the history of our communities,” she said.
Next Steps for Coakley Chapel Park
The Lowcountry Land Trust will hold ownership of the park during its development phase. Once completed, ownership will transfer to the Hamlin Beach Community Association. The community is planning to host public meetings to discuss future uses of the park. The development plan includes the addition of trails, signage, boardwalks, and passive recreational areas, with an estimated timeline of one to two years for completion.
