A Journey Through Time: Galveston’s Black History

As a cultural anthropologist, I have always been drawn to the stories that shape our world, and the Juneteenth Tour in Galveston, Texas, offered a profound opportunity to delve into a pivotal chapter of American history. Led by the passionate Dr. Araminta Sorrell, this tour was more than a mere sightseeing excursion; it was an emotional journey through the heart of African American resilience and triumph.

Our journey began at the Old Central Cultural Center, a place that stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom. Dr. Sorrell’s storytelling was nothing short of mesmerizing. She transported us back to January 1, 1866, when over 800 freed individuals gathered at the Old Galveston Courthouse for the first reading of General Order No. 3. Her vivid descriptions allowed us to feel the joy and hope of that day, as they marched to Reedy Chapel AME Church, singing songs of freedom and giving thanks for their liberation.

The tour continued to the Middle Passage Marker, a somber reminder of the beginning of slavery in the New World. Here, Dr. Sorrell’s narration took on a reverent tone, honoring the lives lost and the strength of those who survived. It was a moment of reflection, a chance to connect with the past and acknowledge the sacrifices that paved the way for future generations.

Reliving the Unseen Stories

One of the most compelling aspects of the tour was Dr. Sorrell’s commitment to sharing the stories often overlooked in mainstream narratives. As we visited the Absolute Equality Mural and the Nia Cultural Center, the only African American art gallery on The Strand, we were reminded of the importance of preserving these stories. Dr. Sorrell’s passion for her work was evident in every word, as she painted vivid scenes of hope, resistance, and transformation.

The journey was not just educational; it was deeply emotional. At each stop, we were invited to relive the moments that defined a people’s struggle for freedom. The Juneteenth marker, where Executive Order #3 was read, stood as a powerful symbol of liberation. It was as if we were walking alongside those who first tasted freedom on June 19, 1865, the day federal troops arrived in Galveston to enforce the emancipation of enslaved people in Texas.

Dr. Sorrell’s expert curation of the sites and her passionate delivery made the tour a profound learning experience. Her dedication to telling the full story of African American Texans ensured that we walked away with not only knowledge but a deepened appreciation for the strength and resilience of a people whose stories deserve to be remembered and honored.

A Legacy of Strength and Resilience

The final stop on our tour was the 1859 Ashton Villa, where we saw the statue of Al Edwards, the legislator who helped make Juneteenth a state holiday in 1979. The “And Still We Rise” exhibit was a fitting conclusion to our journey, celebrating the enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom and equality.

As I reflected on the day’s experiences, I was struck by the power of storytelling to connect us to the past and inspire us for the future. Dr. Sorrell’s tour was a reminder that history is not just a collection of dates and events but a living narrative that continues to shape our world.

For anyone seeking to understand the true origins of Juneteenth and the broader narrative of Black history in America, this tour is a must. It is a journey that invites us to “relive the history that is not taught in history books,” as Dr. Sorrell so powerfully reminds us. Through her passionate guidance, we are encouraged to honor the legacy of those who came before us and to continue the work of building a more just and equitable world.