Juneteenth In Galveston is where it all began. Fay H. Williams explains the feeling of Juneteenth as she witnessed a Juneteenth celebration back in the 1930’s. This is episode 1 part 1 of an 6 episode series.
Transcript Below:
Welcome to the inaugural episode of our podcast series, “Juneteenth in Galveston: Where It All Began.” In this premiere episode, we dive deep into the history of Juneteenth as we sit down with Faye H. Williams, a proud Galveston native and esteemed member of the Galveston Island African American Treasures Group. Our host, Cornelia Harris Banks, guides this informative discussion that sheds light on the origins and significance of Juneteenth from a deeply personal and historical perspective.
Cornelia Harris Banks introduces Faye Williams by highlighting her as a born-and-bred Galveston Island resident, a fact that plays a significant role in her narrative. Faye, a self-proclaimed “B.O.I.” (Born on the Island), recounts her early experiences with Juneteenth, dating back to when she was just four years old. Notably, she shares heartwarming memories of a Juneteenth celebration in Brazoria, Texas, where she first encountered living history, meeting individuals who had been freed as slaves.
Faye narrates a poignant episode from June 19th, 1938, when she witnessed two former slaves recounting their emancipation stories. The event, marked by tears of joy and a profound sense of liberation, left an indelible mark on young Faye. Additionally, she recalls a young girl passionately reciting General Order 3, which proclaimed the freedom of slaves in Texas. This performance planted the seeds of activism and historical inquiry in Faye’s life, shaping her journey of over 80 years dedicated to understanding Juneteenth’s significance.
Faye shares her extensive research into Juneteenth, highlighting the critical role of General Order 3. Announcing that “all slaves are free,” this order is often remembered and celebrated during Juneteenth. However, Faye emphasizes that there were additional orders issued, including one establishing a command structure and another nullifying acts of the Confederacy, underscoring the thorough transformation enforced by the Union Army in Texas.
The conversation broadens as Faye explains Galveston’s strategic importance during and after the Civil War. She elaborates on the city’s role as a significant port for cotton export, which was crucial to several states’ economies. The capture and control of Galveston by General Gordon Granger and his troops, including the arrival of colored troops, signified not just the end of slavery but also the reintegration of Texas into the Union. Faye’s insights make it clear that Galveston’s history is intrinsically linked with the broader narrative of emancipation and reconstruction in the United States.
Cornelia and Faye discuss the evolution of Juneteenth from a regional to a national holiday. They reflect on the importance of educating the public about the authentic history of Juneteenth, starting from its roots in Galvest
