Juneteenth – short for June nineteenth – marks the anniversary of Union troops marching into Galveston, Texas in 1865 to announce the end of the Civil War and the freedom of all enslaved people. Though more than two years had passed since the Emancipation Proclamation, slaveholders in the farthest reaches of the South continued the practice of slavery throughout the War. Juneteenth became a federally recognized holiday in 2021, and today it serves as an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s history, commemorate emancipation and celebrate as a community.
This year’s Juneteenth Celebration at Greenwich Historical Society will offer fun and learning for the whole family. Browse the curated market in the Tavern Garden, highlighting local businesses. Relax on the great lawn with lawn games and jazz music from the Demolition Brass Band. Enjoy a plate of delicious food from a local restaurant. Kids of all ages will enjoy educational crafts, a garden scavenger hunt and games. Adults and kids alike are invited to join in the community mural coloring spotlighting Black history in Greenwich, organized in partnership with PARJE.
Visit the Historical Society’s special exhibition, LIFE: Six Women Photographers, while the show is activated by the soulful singing of Billy Eckstine, the subject of one of the LIFE photo essays. Curious about genealogy? Our Library and Archives will be open for visitors to learn about conducting genealogy in Greenwich, including a Q & A with researcher and historian Teresa Vega.
This event is suitable for all ages. Bring your water bottles, blankets, lawn chairs, and anything else your family needs to be comfortable on the lawn as you join us to celebrate Juneteenth. Pre-registration is optional, but highly recommended. In the event of inclement weather, the Juneteenth celebration will take place indoors.
Although this is a free public program, donations are greatly appreciated and can be made via the registration link above. Your donation will help offset the cost of this event and help fund future Juneteenth programs. We thank you for your support!
Support for the Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom has been generously provided by Rob and Liz Kirkpatrick.
