The island city where Juneteenth was
born

When we think of freedom in American history, Juneteenth stands out as a powerful symbol.          It marks the day when the last enslaved African Americans in the U.S. were finally told they
were free. But where exactly did this happen?

        The answer: Galveston, Texas — a small island city with a big place in history.

    What Is Juneteenth?

      Juneteenth is short for “June Nineteenth.” It’s the day in 1865 when Union soldiers
arrived in Galveston and announced that slavery had ended, more than two years after the
Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abraham Lincoln.

      While Lincoln declared enslaved people free in 1863, the news didn’t reach Texas — the
westernmost Confederate state — until June 19, 1865.

The Day Freedom Came to Texas

        On that important day, General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston with 2,000 Union
troops. He stood before the people and read General Order No. 3, which said:

“The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.”

       For many Black Texans, this was the first time they heard they were no longer enslaved. That
moment became a turning point — not just for Texas, but for the entire nation.

    Why Galveston?

      Galveston was a busy port city and had remained under Confederate control throughout most of
the Civil War. Because of its location and isolation, news of the Emancipation Proclamation
didn’t arrive — or wasn’t enforced — until Union troops showed up.

      That’s why Galveston became the birthplace of Juneteenth.

The First Juneteenth Celebration

       One year later, in 1866, freed people in Texas began celebrating Juneteenth. The day was
marked with:

• Prayer services

• Picnics and barbecues

• Parades

• Singing, dancing, and storytelling

      It was a joyful time — a celebration of freedom, family, and hope.

    Juneteenth Becomes a National Holiday

      Fast forward to June 17, 2021 — Juneteenth was officially made a federal holiday in the
United States. It’s now recognized as a day to honor African American history, freedom,
and the long fight for justice.

       Today, Galveston continues to lead the way in remembering the legacy of Juneteenth with large
public events, education, and community celebrations.

Why Juneteenth Still Matters

      Juneteenth isn’t just about the past — it’s about the future. It reminds us that freedom was
delayed, but never denied. It honors the strength and spirit of those who lived through slavery
and those who fought to end it.

      And it all started in a small island city on the Texas coast — Galveston — where the final
words of freedom were spoken out loud.

      Let’s continue to remember, reflect, and celebrate. Happy Juneteenth.