Vestiges of the Past Juneteeth Celebration

As part of this year’s Juneteeth Celebration there will be an old-time singing and dinner on the grounds at the William Looney Tavern in Dalton beginning at 5 p.m. on Friday, June 17 while the normal festivities will still take place at the Eddie Mae Herron Center on Saturday, June 18.

The evening at the William Looney Tavern will begin with Cindy Robinette giving a short program about the African American Looney and Williford families who lived on and near the farm following the Civil War.  There will then be a beans and cornbread potluck supper provided by volunteers and the evening will finish off with music by the St Louis Metro Singers.  Bring your lawn chair and enjoy this free evening of entertainment!

Saturday’s events will begin at 9 a.m. with Cub Scout Pack 45 leading the Pledge of Allegiance.   There will be 3 on 3 basketball tournament, a beauty pageant, as well as a program given by Anna Lou Cook showing her seven generations of quilts.  Barbecue will be provided for lunch free of charge, although donations will be accepted.

Starting at 1 p.m. Javis “JaySoul” Neal will perform.  The Memphis native’s music has its roots in gospel and then expanded to R&B Soul, Motown, 70s and 80s, Classic Rock, and Blues.  The concert will go until 3 p.m.

Come out and enjoy a weekend of fun for all ages while celebrating freedom.  For a more complete list of activities or for further information, contact the Eddie Mae Herron center at (870)892-4433.  For information about Friday evening at the William Looney Tavern contact Jessica Bailey at (870)248-4189.