On June 19, 1865 Union General Gordon Granger read out the Emancipation Proclamation in Galveston, Texas to notify those slaves that they were free.

President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862 to declare slaves their freedom in areas under the Confederate control, including Florida.  Freedom from slavery took effect January 1, 1863.  This date is known as "Jubilee Day".

The Civil War was over before some African Americans learned about the Proclamation, even though Union Soldiers were dispatched to deliver the word as it took effect in 1863.  It took two and a half years for the word of this freedom to reach Texas.  Upon his arrival in Galveston on June 19, he officially declared that the institution of slavery^qv was dead, setting off joyful displays by Texas freedmen.  His most important assignment after leaving Texas was to command the District of New Mexico (1871-76).

Granger's proclamation formed the basis for the annual "Juneteenth"^qv festivities, which celebrate the end of slavery in Texas.  Juneteenth celebrates June 19, 1865.  It was a time for reassuring each other, for praying and for gathering remaining family members.  Many former slaves and descendants make an annual pilgrimage back to Galveston on this date.

Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement.  It is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.  Celebrations are held in most states and in several foreign nations.

Juneteenth became an official state holiday in Texas on January 1, 1980, through the efforts of Al Edwards, State Legislator.  Representative Edwards actively sought to spread the observance of Juneteenth all across America.

Today, Juneteenth celebrates freedom while encouraging self-development and respect for all cultures.

"Juneteenth"
(Painting by G. Rose)





"General Gordon Granger"