By Kelli Nesbitt, Parks & Recreation Marketing Coordinator
On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers led by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger landed in Galveston with news the war had ended and the enslaved were free. It was two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect.
A century and a half later, we continue to celebrate Juneteenth, now a federal holiday. It’s a time for reflection, rejoicing, and learning about local black history and culture.
We invite you and your family to celebrate with three free events this month:
Saturday, June 10
Starlight Music Series
6-10 p.m., Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater
Load up your lawn chairs and coolers for a free Starlight Music Series concert honoring Juneteenth at the Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater. The event features Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers with guests Bayou City Funk and Brazos Valley Jazz Society Gates open at 6 p.m. and the concert starts at 7. Free parking is available at Post Oak Mall, with handicap parking near Colgate Drive.
Thursday, June 15
Let Freedom Ring: Oral History Documentary Night
6:30-8:30 p.m., Lincoln Recreation Center
Explore and celebrate the compelling variety of Black history in College Station with a screening of “Our Independence Day: Celebrating the Black Founding Families of College Station.” The documentary features oral history interviews with citizens sharing their life experiences. Several College Station streets were named for these families, whose thriving neighborhoods contributed positively to College Station. Food trucks and vendors will be available.
Friday, June 16
Juneteenth Freedom Walk
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Lincoln Recreation Center
The 2.2-mile legacy walk takes you from the Lincoln Recreation Center to the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum. Afterward, you’re invited to stay for the George Bush Presidential Library and the Museum Education Department’s Freedom’s Legacy Storytelling by award-winning storyteller Toni Simmons. Celebrate Juneteenth through stories, songs, chants, rhythms, and dances.
For more information about Lincoln Recreation Center events and programs, visit cstx.gov/LincolnCenter or call 979-764-3779.
Related Posts:
• Lincoln Center, neighborhood thrive after years of investment
• Proud history moves Lincoln Center “forever forward”
• A&M students provide a glimpse into Lincoln Center’s past
• Local team pays tribute to the Lincoln High Panthers
• “Redeeming Time” Endures at Historic Lincoln Center
• Lincoln alumni blaze an impressive trail of achievement
About the Blogger
Kelli Nesbitt has served the Parks & Recreation Department for 17 years, the last nine as marketing coordinator. A native of Bryan, she earned a bachelor’s degree in health & kinesiology from Sam Houston State.
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