TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)– The sounds of singing voices, clapping hands and stomping feet filled the Vigo County History Center on Monday for their Juneteenth celebration.
The Freetown Village Singers, a group based in Indianapolis, came to perform. Tina Harris, the secretary for the quartet, said they were honored to be brought in for the holiday.
“It means a whole lot,” she said. “It is very important that the young and old and older generations understand their Black history, and understand what Juneteenth meant for the people in Texas not being aware that they were actually free. It’s something that we need to celebrate.”
The group was founded by Ophelia Wellington in the 1980’s. Harris was joined by Sandy Lomax, Janice Bruen and Norma Shelbourne for Monday’s event, which took place in front of a packed auditorium. Harris credited Lomax for putting together their Juneteenth performance.
“Since it was Juneteenth, she made sure that we sang songs that were in that category and what they stood for, and what they meant. That’s the reason the readings were read when they were and the songs were sung like they were,” Harris said.
That was only part of the festivities at the history center. They hosted a food truck, had multiple coloring books for children and had local historian, Dr. Crystal Reynolds, present on the history of Emancipation Day celebrations in the community. Suzy Quick, the curator at the museum, said she was happy to see such a great turnout.
“We’re very excited to have such a good turnout today,” she said. “It’s a great opportunity for people to come and learn about history in an engaging atmosphere that just encourages a good time. There is going to be some storytelling going on, some songs, and it’s just a great way to learn about history.”
Harris said she was impressed by the passion in the community, and hopes that the audience left the performance with curiosity about their backgrounds and heritage.
“I want people to go home and do their own research about their own history. Whether it be Black history or any other history,” she said. “Get involved in the community, get involved in your museums, pick up a book and read it, call and ask questions and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”
The group left a good impression– the crowd gave them a standing ovation once the performance finished. Harris said she was happy to see so many in the community out celebrating Juneteenth, and she wants to set the standard for future standards.
“Don’t be afraid to celebrate your history, it is important because there is another generation behind us that needs to know it. And who are they watching? Us. Who are they going to call and ask questions? Us,” she said. “We are determined to educate the next generation.”
Anyone who wants to contact Freetown Village can reach them at 317-631-1870.
