Exploring the History of Juneteenth in Cultural Crossroads

As communities across Texas prepare to commemorate Juneteenth, visitors to the Mayborn Museum can explore the history behind the holiday through Cultural Crossroads, the museum's newest exhibition.

The exhibit highlights June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston to announce freedom for more than 250,000 enslaved people in Texas, and examines how Black Texans built communities, businesses, and traditions in the years that followed. Through historic photographs, artwork, and stories from Central Texas, visitors can discover how Juneteenth celebrations became an enduring expression of freedom, family, resilience, and joy.

One featured illustration depicts a Juneteenth parade in Waco, inspired by accounts of local celebrations that drew thousands of participants in the late nineteenth century. The scene reflects the spirit of community gatherings that have made Juneteenth a lasting tradition across Texas.

Cultural Crossroads is included with museum admission and is currently on view at the Mayborn Museum Complex.