Juneteenth Heritage Celebration

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This portrait of a woman peeling apples was purchased at a Christie’s auction in 1995 when the contents of the Hatfield Plantation—down the road from the Museum—was auctioned. It was not part of the original furnishings, but was purchased by a later owner who restored the home and furnished it with period pieces. The only thing known about it is that it is of the American School of art, dates to ca. 1800, and is oil on wood.

152 years ago, Union general Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston and made a declaration of freedom ending the bondage of approximately 250,000 enslaved men, women, and children in Texas. Since that time “Juneteenth” has been celebrated and remembered by picnics, parades, family reunions, pageants, barbecues, and games. Join Washington-on-the-Brazos on June 24 as they observe this important occasion by celebrating the rich African American heritage and culture of the Brazos Valley, past and present. This new program for Washington-on-the-Brazos State Park will include artifact exhibits, art displays, prominent guest speakers such as historians, former athletes and genealogists, living history buffalo soldiers and cowboys, church choir performances, food, and more.

Event Highlights

Joshua Houston (1822-1902) was raised in Alabama. He moved to Texas with Sam Houston and Margaret Lea after their marriage in 1840. Because Joshua learned to read and write and was taught a craft, he became a successful businessman, alderman, county commissioner and in 1888, a delegate to the Republican National Convention.

“Juneteenth Heritage Celebration” will be held from 10am-4:30pm at Visitor Center Complex, Conference Center and Education Center within Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historical Park. The park is off Highway 105 between Navasota and Brenham on FM 1155.

For additional details call Jon Failor at (936) 878-2214 ext. 224.