Juneteenth Celebration 2023

THIS JUNE 17TH

Juneteenth is an annual commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States after the Civil War, and has been celebrated by African Americans since the late 1800s. The Oldham County History Center held its first Juneteenth Celebration in 2004.  The Juneteenth Committee of the Oldham County History Center presents an annual Elijah Marrs Award that recognizes and outstanding member of the Black community that is a mentor and made significant positive contributions. This year the celebration will include a Black vendors, artists, craftsman, food trucks and authors along with theatrical and musical performances.  Activities take place at the Oldham County History Center campus in downtown LaGrange.

Juneteenth Program

9:30-1:30

Vendors and Food Trucks on the Oldham County History Center Campus

Hands on history activities for kids including colonial cooking demo, printing press, quill & pen writing, Juneteenth flag craft, “Snakes, Spiders and Root Cellar Exhibit)

African American Displays in the Rob Morris Chapel

Artwork by Victor Sweatt in the Rob Morris Chapel

The First Juneteenth Celebration at the History Center 2004 Video ongoing in the Museum

Book Signings by local authors

11:30-1:30

Will take place on the Stone Stage or inside the Rob Morris Chapel in case of rain.

Voice of the Fugitive Play Vignette performed by Josiah Bishop and Jasmine Marvin

Dance Performance by Christina Robinson

Priscilla Harris Singer/Performer

Members of the Pleasant View Baptist Church Choir

Presentation of the 2023 Elijah Marrs Achievement Award to Judge Jerry Crosby

1:30-2:30

Dedication of the Petter Parker Monument by Rev. Doris Harris

Stories of the Stones: Stories about the families buried at the Historic African American Cemetery by various volunteers

Program ends by 3 p.m.