Carver Museum's Juneteenth exhibits examine Black history, freedom

As Austin celebrates Juneteenth, the George Washington Carver Museum explores slavery, emancipation and Black Texas history through artifacts and art in two exhibitions. "The African-American Presence in 19th Century Texas" traces the history of slavery, freedom and Black life in Texas following emancipation. Shackles, a receipt documenting the sale of a 17-year-old enslaved person, and an 1858 portrait of a nude Black boy commissioned by his white owner are among the artifacts on display. The exhibit also tells the story of what came after emancipation, including the establishment of Black communities like Clarksville and the election of Black officials during Reconstruction. Artist Hakeem Adewumi's solo exhibition, "Seeing Further," explores Black lineage, memory, and liberation through photography and found objects salvaged from his Texas homestead. Central Texas Juneteenth at Rosewood Park will take place on June 19, with a parade, live entertainment, food vendors, community resources, and cultural activities from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Juneteenth at the Carver Library will take place on June 20, featuring music, a puppet show, capoeira, African dance, kids' activities, and refreshments from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.