This year marks the 160th anniversary of Juneteenth—a time of celebration, reflection and remembrance of where freedom began. Known as “the birthplace of Juneteenth”, Galveston Island takes the time to honor Juneteenth not just on June 19, but year-round.
Historically, General Orders, No. 3, was issued on June 19, 1865. The orders, among others read by General Gordon Granger at sites throughout Galveston, announced to the people of Texas that all enslaved people were free. Although many associate Abraham Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation as the primary catalyst for the freedom of the enslaved, it was actually the General Orders, No. 3, that was read by General Granger on Galveston Island that enforced the enslaved’s freedom. Juneteenth, also known as either Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is now an international symbol of freedom and remembrance, with celebrations held all throughout the year.
Through its powerful landmarks, cultural storytelling, and historical landscape, Galveston Island has preserved this critical piece of history through parades, tours, music, and more—that honors “the coastal shores where freedom truly began.” In honor of all things Juneteenth, be sure to add these treasures to your travel bucket list and consider heading to Galveston Island to capture the true spirit of the holiday in a quest for reconnection, reformation, and ultimately, getting back to the root of it all.
“And Still We Rise…Galveston’s Juneteenth Story” Exhibit: (2328 Broadway, Galveston, TX)
One of the more thorough accountings of the Juneteenth Story, the “And Still We Rise” exhibit is housed in the carriage house on the property of the iconic 1859 Ashton Villa. The exhibit tells the story of Juneteenth with collected photos, stories and research.
“This Juneteenth experience introduces visitors and residents alike to the important story from 1865. It’s an opportunity to connect important local sites to the largely under-told piece of Galveston’s history,” said Galveston Historical Foundation Executive Director Dwayne Jones. “Galvestonians are long familiar with Juneteenth, but now that it’s a national holiday, more visitors, in person and virtually, can learn through the Ashton Villa experience and connect our island to freedom for others.”
Reedy Chapel – AME Church: (2025 Broadway & 20th, Galveston, TX)
This iconic church has been coined as “the mother church of African Methodism in Texas”, and was one of the sites where the General Orders, No. 3, were read to the enslaved people, announcing their freedom. Reedy Chapel is also known to have hosted some of the very first Juneteenth celebrations on its property back in 1866.
Nia Cultural Center: (2217 Strand Street, Suite 101, Galveston, TX)
More than just a gallery, the Nia Cultural Center is the hub for African-American history on Galveston Island, from the 1800’s to the present—including all things Juneteenth. Noted as The Juneteenth Legacy Headquarters, Nia Cultural Center is located right behind the official Juneteenth Mural on the bustling and iconic Strand Street in Galveston.
The Absolute Equality Juneteenth Mural: (Strand Street, Galveston, TX)
The Absolute Equality Juneteenth Mural is adjacent to the Nia Cultural Center on Strand Street, and located near the Juneteenth Historical landmarker. At the end of the mural, and at the corner of the building, is also said to have been a site where the General Orders, No. 3, were read to the enslaved people.
The Absolute Equality Mural visually showcases the story of Juneteenth from when the African people reached Galveston Island to their eventual freedom, and even homage to Opal Lee’s efforts in getting Juneteenth recognized as a national holiday. “Absolute Equality aims to recontextualize Juneteenth as a pivotal moment in the arc of U.S. history, while properly telling the story of its genesis, and historical and contemporary relevance through the power of public art.”
Juneteenth and Beyond Tour: JuneteenthandBeyond.com
The Juneteenth and Beyond Tour on Galveston Island, gives the accurate historical accounting of Juneteenth that’s not told in history books. Chronicling the enslaved people from the moment they touched the island to their freedom, and then beyond—the Juneteenth and Beyond Tour is one of the best guided tours on the island to make the most of your Juneteenth visit on Galveston Island.
