In 1863, during the American Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared more than three million slaves living in the Confederate states to be free. More than two years would pass before the news reached African Americans living in Texas. It was not until Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, that the last community of enslaved people learned that slavery had been abolished.

The following year, on June 19, the first official Juneteenth celebrations took place in Texas.  Within a few years, African Americans in other states celebrated the day, making it an annual tradition. The news of emancipation occurred on different days in communities around the South, and today, Juneteenth is a day for all to celebrate freedom. 

Program Schedule:

Beyond the Fields:  Enslavement at Middleton Place – 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:00 PM

Presentation of the PBS Beyond the Fields Documentary  – 10:30 AM  and 2:30 PM (in the climate-controlled Pavilion)

Curator Talk at Eliza’s House – 1:00 PM

In recognition of this important moment in our nation’s history, Middleton Place will offer half-price general admission to all residents of Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties. Discounted tickets must be purchased at the Visitors Center with ID.