Did you know Black soldiers stationed in Chesterfield County were on the ground in Texas as slaves finally found out about their freedom two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation?
In Episode 50 of “Chesterfield Behind The Mic,” we explore Chesterfield’s unique connection to Juneteenth with historian John Pagano of Henricus Historical Park explains how Black Union soldiers stationed locally were part of the forces that arrived in Galveston on June 19, 1865 as word finally came about the abolition of slavery throughout the former United States of the Confederacy.
The recent podcast is part of Chesterfield’s celebration of Juneteenth, which the county is commemorating with several free activities through June 24.
For a full list of activities – including a Pop-Up Market with Richmond Night Market at the Perkinson Arts and Education Center on June 24 – Visit the Chesterfield Juneteenth Celebration webpage.