The Forgotten Soldiers of Juneteenth: The 116th United States Colored Troops of Dutch Gap Canal
On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger sent word to enslaved communities and their enslavers of the Emancipation Proclamation; this day has long been celebrated in Black communities as Juneteenth. A portion of the U.S. troops that marched into Galveston, Texas were men of the 116th United States Colored Troops -who months before had been stationed around the Dutch Gap Canal (what is now Henricus Historical Park.)
The week of Juneteenth, Henricus will have an exhibition displayed in the church, showcasing photography of the 116th USCTs while they were at the Dutch Gap Canal. These intrepid soldiers served with distinction and their faces need to be remembered! Alongside the imagery, there will be display tables of reproduction clothing, gear, and weaponry that resemble what would have been used by the men of the USCTs for adults and children to examine, feel, or wear.
Saturday, June 22, Henricus Interpretation Supervisor John Pagano will be in the church to lead any discussions on the topic and answer any further questions people may have on the topic.
Date: Thursday – Sunday, June 20 – 23
Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Henricus Church
Cost: $12/adult, $8/children ages 5-12; Henricus Members: free
Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Henricus Church
Cost: $12/adult, $8/children ages 5-12; Henricus Members: free