Experience Greek Culture at the Durham Greek Festival: A Family-Friendly Celebration!

Experience History at Stagville: Emancipation and Juneteenth Tours

Update Discovering Emancipation: A Journey Through Stagville's History Historic Stagville, located at 5828 Old Oxford Highway in Durham, North Carolina, offers visitors a poignant glimpse into a past steeped in complexity and courage. Once a sprawling plantation where the Bennehan and Cameron families enslaved over 900 individuals, Stagville is now a beacon for those seeking to understand the lasting impacts of slavery through extensive historical preservation and interpretation efforts. What Are Emancipation Tours? This June, residents and visitors alike can partake in the fascinating Emancipation tours held every Wednesday at 10 a.m. Tickets are only $10, making it an accessible opportunity for everyone to dive deep into the narratives that shaped the region. The tour endeavors to illuminate how enslaved people claimed their freedom in 1865, recounting rich stories of resilience amidst adversity. Participants can expect a carefully guided experience that covers both outdoor and indoor locations, walking across uneven surfaces, stepping into historic buildings, and enjoying a captivating 3/4 mile drive. Stories that speak of love, loss, and determination are central themes, connecting visitors to the human experience behind the historical facts. Celebrating Freedom: Juneteenth Tours Recognizing the importance of Juneteenth, Stagville expands its offerings with special tours available on June 19. These tours are free, thanks to the commitment of the Historic Stagville Foundation, showing a community dedicated to education and reflection. Starting at 9 a.m. and occurring every half hour until 2:30 p.m., these tours represent more than just a history lesson; they are a celebration of liberation and resilience. Just like the Emancipation tours, the Juneteenth tours will take guests through similar narratives of struggle and triumph, exploring how formerly enslaved families not only celebrated their newfound freedom but also fought to maintain it amidst threats from those who wished to restore the status quo. Each tale serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the past and the ongoing journey toward equality. Why Attend a Tour? Participating in either tour at Stagville is more than just an outing; it is a vital act of remembrance and recognition. Such experiences foster a deeper understanding of our history and its implications for today’s societal dynamics. For families, educators, and community members, this provides a unique opportunity to engage with relevant, historical content that speaks to both past and present injustices while inspiring proactive conversations about freedom, family, and community. Plan Your Visit With upcoming tours just around the corner, attendees are encouraged to check in at the visitors center to secure their spot. All tours include outdoor excursions that require appropriate footwear and hydration, encouraging you to embrace the summer weather while soaking up rich educational narratives. Make this June a month of reflection and learning. Join the community in understanding the depths of our shared history and the stories that continue shaping our society today. As we come together to honor Juneteenth and the Emancipation of our ancestors, let’s celebrate resilience, unity, and hope for the future.