* This presentation takes place at Fort Delaware State Park. FREE ferry tickets available for the 11:00 AM ferry (55 Clinton Street) WHILE SUPPLIES LAST.

Register for the program below and pick up your ticket at the Delaware City Library June 15 - 18 OR at the ferry dock at from 10:00 - 10:30 AM from the Library Director, Loree Elton.  YOU MUST REGISTER HERE TO RECEIVE A FERRY TICKET *

• 10:45 AM - READING of GENERAL ORDER No. 3 @ Ferry Dock
• 11:00 AM Ferry to Fort Delaware
• 11:45 AM - The History of Juneteenth presentation

The ferry leaves PROMPTLY at 11:00 AM - DO NOT BE LATE!

Most of us know the seminal moment: June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation. But what events actually set this day in motion, and why did it take two and a half years for freedom to reach the Gulf Coast?

Go beyond the textbook to uncover the fascinating, complex web of military strategy and political maneuvering that culminated in the very first Juneteenth celebration. This presentation offers a summarized discussion of the catalyst events on both sides of the conflict and maps out a physical timeline of the milestones that changed American history forever.

We will also reveal the hidden layers of this famous mission, exploring:

• The Dual Mission: Why the specific troops sent to Texas were selected, and the strategic secondary objectives they were ordered to complete that differed vastly from their journey to Galveston.

• The Forces in the Background: The crucial, influential figures working behind the scenes to direct Union forces to Texas, including Ely Parker, the Seneca leader, engineer, and military secretary to General Ulysses S. Grant, who drafted the articles of Confederate surrender.

Join us for an enlightening presentation that restores these vital, missing pieces to the story of our nation's second Independence Day. Perfect for history enthusiasts, educators, and community members alike.

All are welcome to attend.