General de Lafayette Chapter
National Society Daughters of the American Revolution
P.O. Box 1, Lafayette, IN 47902
www.dar.org
For Immediate Release
Contact: Diana Vice, Regent
generaldelafayette@gmail.com — 765-490-7254
Emancipation Day Celebration September 22: A Journey Through History
LAFAYETTE, Indiana – The General de Lafayette Chapter and Preserve Historic Lafayette are proud to announce the Emancipation Day Celebration, a unique event that promises to transport attendees back in time to a pivotal moment in American history. This remarkable occasion will take place on September 22, 2023, at the Arts Federation, located at 638 North Street, Lafayette, Indiana, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm. While the event is free, space is limited. Reserve your place now by emailing: generaldelafayette@gmail.com.
The Emancipation Day Celebration will illuminate Lafayette’s involvement with the emancipation of enslaved individuals, and celebrate the progress we have made towards equality. This will be an unforgettable experience, filled with historical reenactments, live performances, artistic displays, and an interactive walking tour that delves into Lafayette’s connection to the Underground Railroad. We invite the entire Lafayette community to join us on this historic journey.
Event Highlights:
1. Historical Reenactments: Professional actors will bring history to life with portrayals of two iconic figures: Frederick Douglass and President Abraham Lincoln.
2. Live Performances: James Dekle and Audrey Johnson will take the stage to perform “Lift Every Voice,” a powerful anthem that has played a significant role in the struggle for civil rights.
3. Artistic Showcase: Local artist Saundra Whiddon will showcase her beautiful art pieces that are intricately linked to the Emancipation Day event. These will be available for sale following the event.
4. Interactive Walking Tour: Step into history with an interactive walking tour through the neighborhood, featuring local historical figures who were integral to the Underground Railroad in Lafayette. Meet General Tootle, the African American stationmaster, who, alongside individuals like Sheriff Martin Peirce and Judge Cyrus Ball, played a crucial role in aiding freedom seekers on their journeys northward.
5. Historic Church Tours: Explore the rich heritage of Lafayette with exclusive access to the historic AME Church and St. John’s Church, both of which hold a significant place in the local and national history of emancipation.
6. Bell Ringing Ceremony: At 6:00 pm, several downtown churches will toll their bells in unison, creating a moving and symbolic moment that marks Emancipation Day.
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 to promote historic preservation, education, and patriotism. Its members are descended from the patriots who won American independence during the Revolutionary War. With more than 177,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters worldwide, DAR is one of the world’s largest and most active service organizations. DAR members are committed to volunteer service, having served more than 12.5 million hours in communities throughout the world during the past three years. To learn more about the work of today’s DAR, visit www.DAR.org or connect with DAR on social media at facebook.com/TodaysDAR, twitter.com/TodaysDAR and youtube.com/TodaysDAR.