How to go
What: Juneteenth Barbecue Cook-off
Where: Gammon House Museum, 620 Piqua Place, Springfield
When: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday
Admission: No cost; donations accepted
More info: 937-322-8359 or www.gammonhouseoh.org
Summer holidays are more significant with history. Add food and it gets that much better.
Springfield’s Gammon House Museum will celebrate Juneteenth with food, live entertainment and more with its fourth annual Barbecue Cook-off, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.
The Gammon House Museum is located at 620 Piqua Place.
Juneteenth commemorates the abolition of slavery in the U.S. when it was announced in Texas on May 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed.
“It’s a great chance to enjoy and learn history,” said Betty Grimes, Gammon House Museum chairwoman.
The Gammon House was an Ohio stop and safe house on the Underground Railroad. The Gammon family were free African-Americans who helped the movement despite a significant risk if they were caught.
Festivities will include a cooking contest with local grill masters and a variety of foods. Choirs, singers and musicians will play throughout the event.
Another special attraction will be a guessing contest with old family photos from years past, along with other contests and activities.
Gammon House tours will also be available during the day.
There is no admission fee, but financial donations to the ongoing Gammon House restoration will be accepted. Food and vendor purchases will be available for separate costs.
The Gammon House Museum has an ongoing mission to restore the house and preserve it as a learning center and place of historical significance.
“It’s the best way to celebrate Juneteenth,” said Grimes.