Join us for our third annual Juneteenth Celebration as we honor and reflect on the contributions of Black soldiers during the American Revolution and Civil War, explore the meaning of Juneteenth, and celebrate its enduring legacy. This free event will feature engaging speakers, living history, and lively musical entertainment. Pre-registration is required due to limited space.

Event Schedule:

2:30 PM – 4:00 PM, Lecture and Presentation Featuring

• Matthew White, Research Fellow for Friends of Washington Crossing Park, will present groundbreaking research on people of color—both military and civilian—who contributed to Washington’s legendary crossing of the Delaware River. He is a historian focused on slavery, abolitionism, and Revolutionary-era politics. Matthew holds an MA in History from Rutgers University and is completing his PhD at The Ohio State University. He contributed to the Museum of the American Revolution’s 2023 exhibit, Black Founders: The Forten Family of Philadelphia, and has published extensively on the Revolutionary origins of antislavery policy in Pennsylvania. His work has uncovered over 100 individuals previously unknown in the historical record, offering fresh insight into this iconic Revolutionary War event. Matthew’s presented research is part of a NPS grant-funded project entitled Calling Forth the Legacy of Jacob Francis: The Revolutionary Road to the Civil Rights Movement. This project is being supported in part by an African American Civil Rights Grant from the Historic Preservation Fund administered by the National Park Service, Department of the Interior.
• Linda Salley, President and Executive Director of the African American Museum of Bucks County (AAMBC), will speak on the significance of Juneteenth and the importance of remembering and teaching African American history. A retired educator from the New York City Board of Education, Linda is a passionate advocate for African American history, community collaboration, and youth education. Under her leadership, the AAMBC has developed impactful programs, including educational trips to Washington, D.C., and partnerships with local institutions such as the Mercer Museum and The Peace Center. A gifted quilter and storyteller, Linda brings energy and inspiration to every project she touches.

The Lecture will also be available to view virtually via Zoom

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM, Living History

• Living History Co., led by Founder Steven Thomas and Events Manager Kevin Chapman, is known for bringing history to life through compelling, research-based presentations used in schools, heritage sites, film and television. Interpreters from Living History Co. and Washington Crossing Historic Park will present engaging living history impressions focusing on the vital contributions of Black soldiers and civilians during the American Revolution and Civil War, particularly in the Bucks County region. Interpreters will be dressed in authentic period uniforms and engage directly with visitors, offering a powerful, personal glimpse into the lives of people of color who shaped American history. Guests will also have the opportunity to view equipment and typical soldier kits while engaging in conversations with reenactors from both eras about the daily life, challenges, and experiences of soldiers during both eras.

5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Live Music by The Quake Band

• Dance into the evening with The Quake Band, Philadelphia’s premier high-energy party band. Known for their electrifying performances across the region, The Quake will keep you moving with an unforgettable live show. Led by Carl Smith, a Philadelphia native and La Salle University graduate, The Quake is a dynamic dance band renowned for professionalism, energy, and musical excellence. Carl personally manages all client coordination and ensures every performance meets the highest standards.

Come celebrate freedom, history, and community at this meaningful and memorable event!

This event is presented in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies.