Burnett-Eaton
Museum
Foundation
Proud to be
Standing
So Much More
Than a Museum
The Burnett-Eaton Museum Foundation not only operates the first and only museum of African-American history in Wilmington, but is also an authentic community-based organization leading efforts in violence prevention, cultural and historical awareness, and community outreach.
RECENT EVENTS
BEMF 4th Annual Juneteenth Community Reunion
June 19, 2024
Burnett-Eaton Museum Foundation
410 N. 7th St. Wilmington, NC
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Happy Juneteenth!
Burnett-Eaton Museum Foundation hosted its 3rd Annual Juneteenth Community Reunion with family, friends, and neighbors, including visitors from afar. Attendees gathered on the lawn and sidewalk in front of the museum under tents, shielding themselves from the sun as they reunited and embraced new people. The program was fun, informative and educational - truly a community reunion celebrating Juneteenth.
Latricia Starks welcomed everyone to the outside event, and Bishop Larry Greene gave the Invocation. Pastor Kojo Nantambu, Civil Rights Activist, poured libation over the soil in remembrance of those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for freedom. The crowd stood tall as Jacqueline Brown led the singing of the Black National Anthem, "Lift Every Voice & Sing." Linda Gilchrist's dance group, "Angels of Love," graced the porch landing dancing to the song "Big God". Unity in the community was felt as the children brought joy and laughter through their dance. "A Change is Gonna Come" was sung by Elease Brown. Vernestine Davis shared her appreciation as she read "The Colored Soldiers", by Paul Laurence Dunbar.
Although the evening was long, the time went fast, as we listened to the history of the life of "Abraham Galloway, Union Spy, Abolition, State Senator" by Derrick Damiyr Speller. "The Spirit of Resiliency" was shared through the legacy of the Black and African experience in the United States. Islah Speller expounded on Opal Lee's walk in making Juneteenth a federal holiday.
ALH Catering Service created an aromatic ambience of fried fish and grilled barbecue chicken, served with potato and garden salad. Water and watermelon helped to quench thirsts.
Gentle wind blew when Agnes Alderman explained the symbols and colors of the Juneteenth flag. Betty Rhodes, Jamaican, reminded everyone of home training and the importance of preserving our culture today. Gaysheron Bell closed out with a jubilant song by the late Mahalia Jackson, "Keep Your Hand On The Plow" and blessings over the food. The mime dancer closed out the performance as the vendors patiently waited to showcase their crafts.
We thank everyone for helping to make this Juneteenth reunion one that will be cherished through the love we all shared.
Brown vs. Board of Education Commemoration
May 17, 2024
NC Civil Rights Trail Hubert Eaton Sr. Marker
Intersection of N. 3rd and Princess Streets
4:00 PM
Photos from earlier events are available on our Photo Gallery page.
BEMF in the News
Our foundation is an official African-American Historic site recognized by the National Park Service's Civil Rights Network!
View original article at the National Parks Service website
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