The Island
Awaits You

WHERE FREEDOM RINGS
AND LIVES FOREVER

Pictured: Galveston Island Beach

Welcome to the sunny shores of Galveston, Texas, a tropical barrier reef island located a few miles off the  Texas Gulf Coast and 50 miles south of the country’s 4th largest city,  Houston, Texas.

Rich in beautiful natural resources,  a bustling port system, an expansive tourism economy, and an innovative education and health community. Tropical summers and mild winters make great companions for living and exploring the city. National cruise lines, along with great restaurants, are high on the list for thousands of visitors throughout the year. Bay or the Beachside, the island is rich & robust in legacy and history. Providing a unique cultural backdrop, making it the premier location to GO Galveston!

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The Emancipation
The Great News Reaches The Shores Of Galveston Island, Tx

General Gordon Granger landed on Galveston Island on June 19, 1865. 
It was on this day; General Granger issued the Emancipation Proclamation of 1863. The proclamation ended the infamous United States slave trade, freeing hundreds of enslaved men, women, and children of African descent. The freeing of the enslaved people happened an entire two years after the proclamation was issued.
This day has been regionally and culturally celebrated. In 2021, this day became an official national holiday. Whether you are traveling I-45 South or via the intercoastal waterway by ferry boat, welcome to Galveston Island, “Destination Juneteenth!”

JUNETEENTH EVENTS
Galveston was home to the first Juneteenth.
Galveston was home to the first Juneteenth.
Installed in 2014 by the Texas Historical Commission, the Juneteenth Marker is on stop one of the city’s "Freedom Walk," highlighting five historic sites connected to Juneteenth. (Source: Visit Galveston)
Installed in 2014 by the Texas Historical Commission, the Juneteenth Marker is on stop one of the city’s "Freedom Walk," highlighting five historic sites connected to Juneteenth. (Source: Visit Galveston)
A celebration of Emancipation Day in Richmond, Virginia, c. 1905.
A celebration of Emancipation Day in Richmond, Virginia, c. 1905.
People gather on the front lawn
People gather on the front lawn
On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger stood on the balcony of the building and declared that all slaves were free, marking the date of the historic Juneteenth celebrations in Texas. (galvestonhistory.org)
On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger stood on the balcony of the building and declared that all slaves were free, marking the date of the historic Juneteenth celebrations in Texas. (galvestonhistory.org)
Ahead of Juneteenth, Galveston, Texas, was recognized as being the original birthplace of the African American holiday.
Ahead of Juneteenth, Galveston, Texas, was recognized as being the original birthplace of the African American holiday.
Juneteenth and Beyond African American Van Tours
Juneteenth and Beyond African American Van Tours
Dance celebration at Juneteenth Parade
Dance celebration at Juneteenth Parade
Crowd gathers for Juneteenth celebration
Crowd gathers for Juneteenth celebration
About Us
Preserving Galveston's
& The Nations Black History

Created by a native Galvestonian who was inspired to be a global ambassador for this historical day and yearly celebration. The desire is to showcase the absolute best of what the island has to offer by someone who truly knows and cares about its heritage. The website is designed to be a global communications. All things essential to Juneteenth connect to the orgin.

The multimedia digital hub to connect all things Juneteenth’s place of origin. Here you will learn about the historical holiday and the modern island community in the areas of local business, municipalities, hotels, county attractions, restaurants, and more! 

During the Juneteenth holiday celebration, we are the amplifying partner for events throughout the county.   An event itinerary of scheduled activities will be provided so you can maximize your experience. 

We will partner with event and cultural influencers, global, national, regional, local, digital, and new media press. For affiliate, partnership, & promotional opportunities, fill out the contact form.

Juneteenth Federal Holiday Traces its Roots to Galveston, Texas
National Juneteenth Coverage

Videos: Various  News Coverage

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