In these days of instant news, it can be hard to imagine waiting for word of world events. In the mid-19th century, delays were common, although we think the two-and-a-half-year delay in word of the Emancipation Proclamation reaching Texas was excessive, even by pre-20th-century standards. It was June 19, 1865 — two and a half years after the fact — that Union soldiers landing in Galveston told Texans that the Civil War had ended and President Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation freeing all slaves. Fast-forward to today, and “Galveston Celebrates Juneteenth,” a nod to the island’s prominent role in the holiday’s history, offers a slate of festivities including art exhibits, author signings, concerts, films and re-enactments (including one of the actual proclamations in front of the Juneteenth monument). The centerpiece will be the Juneteenth Parade on June 21 with the usual complement of marching bands, drill teams, decorated cars, waving politicos and performers.
1 p.m. 22nd and Harborside Drive. For parade route information, call 409‑763‑8676 or visit galveston.com. Free.
Sat., June 21, 1 p.m., 2014
This article appears in Jun 19-25, 2014.
