ASHLAND — The Ashland County Historical Society (ACHS) will host its 2nd annual Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom on Thursday, June 19, from 4 to 7 p.m. at its campus located at 420 Center St., Ashland.
The issue of slavery profoundly impacted every aspect of Ashland County residents’ lives in the 19th century, affecting the economy, human rights, and the definition of liberty while also highlighting substantial political and religious differences.
Juneteenth historically marks the date when word reached Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, notifying the communities about the abolition of slavery in the United States. This year marks the 160th anniversary of this important event.
Join the Ashland County Historical Society, Ashland Main Street, the Ashland County Juneteenth Committee, and the Ashland Public Library for a day of learning about what led to Ashland County’s role during the American Civil War and the abolition of slavery and to come together as a community.
Attendees will hear firsthand accounts from Ashland Countians of the mid-19th century who helped shape our understanding of freedom, as portrayed by living historians.
Join us to learn about the bumpy road in Ashland County in ensuring liberty and justice for all through recollections of the Underground Railroad, Union recruitment by Colonel James Garfield, the thoughts of a hero of Ashland – Seth Barber, and that of freedman Gilbert Locke, who settled in Hayesville.
A free community picnic will be provided in the century’s long tradition of bringing people together on this day of celebration. The Ashland Public Library bookmobile will be available with books about the celebration and activities for our youngest community members.
The event is free and open to the public. Living history walking tours begin at 4:15, 5:15, and 6:15 p.m. Free parking is available onsite.
For more information, please visit www.ashlandhistory.org or call the office during regular business hours at 419-289-3111.
ACHS is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that brings Ashland County’s history alive through education, preservation, and community engagement. Located at 420 Center Street, Ashland, it is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for self-guided tours.
Guided tours are available by appointment. Its entire campus includes the Noonan and Manor Houses, Freer Home, and the Carriage House, which serves as its research library.
For more information, visit www.ashlandhistory.org or call 419-289-3111.