News Summary
Francis Marion University in Florence, S.C. will host its annual Juneteenth celebration this Saturday, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Bernard E. Powers Jr. The event aims to honor African American history and heritage while promoting education and community spirit. Attendees can explore historic cabins dating back to 1836, emphasizing the university’s rich history. Join the celebration to reflect on the past and envision a brighter future.
Florence Gears Up for an Inspiring Juneteenth Celebration
Florence, S.C. is buzzing with excitement as Francis Marion University is all set to host its annual Juneteenth celebration this Saturday! This meaningful event promises to be a fantastic gathering that will not only commemorate a significant moment in history but will also enlighten attendees with valuable insights.
Mark Your Calendars!
The celebration will kick off at 2 p.m. at the FMU Leatherman Medical Education Complex in downtown Florence. Attendees are encouraged to come out and enjoy an afternoon of culture, education, and community spirit. The event is sponsored by the African American Faculty Staff Coalition, highlighting the university’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating African American history and heritage.
A Keynote Speaker with an Impressive Background
This year’s keynote speaker is none other than Bernard E. Powers Jr., a well-respected figure in the field of American History. Dr. Powers is a professor emeritus at the College of Charleston and is renowned for his extensive research and dedication to African American life and history. Holding a Ph.D. from Northwestern University, he is notably the founding director of the Center for the Study of Slavery in Charleston. Additionally, he is the founding president of the Charleston Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History.
Among his notable publications, Dr. Powers authored “Black Charlestonians: A Social History 1822-1885,” which was recognized as an “Outstanding Academic Book” by Choice Magazine. His collaborative work, “We Are Charleston: Tragedy and Triumph at Mother Emanuel,” showcases his profound understanding of African American narratives. In recognition of his efforts in research, writing, and activism, he received the esteemed Carter Godwin Woodson recognition in 2019.
Understanding the Importance of Juneteenth
Juneteenth, celebrated annually on June 19th, marks the official end of slavery in the United States. As a recently recognized federal holiday, it holds a special place in the hearts of many across the country. The FMU campus, steeped in history as it was once a plantation, resonates with stories of resilience and transformation, making this annual celebration all the more poignant.
Hidden Stories of the Past
Dr. Todd Couch, an Associate Sociology Professor at FMU, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the hidden stories within the university’s buildings that are tied to the lives of enslaved individuals. The campus features two remarkable Hewn Timber Cabins that date back over 200 years to 1836. Built by enslaved people, these cabins are excellent examples of architectural techniques that have allowed them to withstand the test of time.
These historic cabins have been recognized for their significance and are included on the National Register of Historic Places. After the end of slavery, families continued to live in these cabins until the 1950s, adding layers to their rich history. For those eager to explore this piece of history, guided tours of the cabins are available from March to November by appointment. Interested individuals can schedule tours from Monday to Friday between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. by reaching out to the FMU library.
Join the Celebration!
Whether you are looking to learn more about African American history, celebrate freedom, or simply connect with your community, the Juneteenth celebration at Francis Marion University offers something for everyone. This vibrant event is a perfect way to honor the past while looking forward to a brighter future.
So, gather your friends and family, and head to downtown Florence this Saturday for a memorable day of reflection, knowledge, and unity. Let’s celebrate our shared history together!
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Additional Resources
- WPDE: Juneteenth Celebration at Francis Marion University
- Wikipedia: Juneteenth
- WPDE: Slave Cabins at Francis Marion University
- Google Search: Francis Marion University
- WPDE: Francis Marion University Celebrates Juneteenth
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Juneteenth
