Looking Back: Olney marks Juneteenth with BBQ in 1938

The Olney Enterprise reported on the Juneteenth holiday for the first time in its June 17, 1938 issue.

The story appeared in the Enterprise following a proclamation by Texas Gov. James V. Allred naming June 20, 1938 Emancipation Day.

Gov. Allred’s proclamation was “a effort to revive Juneteenth celebrations” after African-Americans began leaving Texas during The Great Migration, and moving to northern and western states to escape racial injustice, according the the National Archives website.

The Enterprise initially reported that Olney’s African- American community had no plans to celebrate the holiday in town, but that many were planning on attending celebrations in Wichita Falls and at the Texas State Fair in Dallas.

Here’s what the Enterprise reported on June 17, 1938: “While no formal celebration of ‘Juneteenth’ will be held in Olney, local negroes plan to attend the programs in Wichita Falls or other cities.

“June 19, the day round which the calendar revolves for Texas negroes, will fall on Sunday but the day of celebration will be on Monday, June 20. One of the largest celebrations ever staged is being planned in Dallas.

“Reverence enshrouds the emancipation day for the negroes of Texas. It is the anniversary of the end of slavery. In no other southern state is “Juneteenth” held in such awe.

“This day is, by right of transfer and adoption, the sole possession of Texas negroes and their descendants.”

The next week, the Enterprise reported that about 200 Olneyites - white and African American -- turned out for a celebratory barbecue on East Oak Street, “in the heart of the colored section of town.”

The newspaper reported that contributions for the barbecue were made by “the white people” and that “appreciation for their generosity and co-operation was expressed by Mrs. Brit Brumley on behalf of the colored people.”

“Following the barbecue which was served buffet-style at 8 o’clock, a platform dance was given. ... In charge of arrangements for the celebration were Mr. and Mrs. Brumley and Mrs. Lloyd Maynard and Sigsby Brumley,” the Enterprise reported.