2 days ago
Free admission offered at historic Indiana sites during Juneteenth
TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — In honor of Juneteenth, the Indiana State Museum and Historical Sites will offer free admission to all of its locations across the state on Saturday, June 21.
Juneteenth is a federal holiday recognized on June 19 and commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States following the Civil War.
Three locations in southwest Indiana — Angel Mounds, New Harmony, and Vincennes State Historical Sites — will welcome visitors from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. as a way to celebrate the holiday.
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The Indiana State Museum and Historical Sites said visitors at the Angel Mounds State Historical Site will be able to explore the newly transformed interpretive center, which showcases the modern perspective of native descendants of the Mississippi culture from 1100-1450 A.D.
Attendees will also be able to learn how the mounds were created to align with certain celestial events, such as the summer and winter solstices, and the special meaning this site has in today's world.
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During visitors' trip to the New Harmony State Historical Site, they will be able to hear stories of the early utopian communities — the Harmonists and the Owenites — that once called the area home. Visitors will also be able to walk the halls of the Fauntleroy House and Thrall's Opera House — buildings early utopian communities left behind.
The Indiana State Museum and Historical Sites said tours will offer tours at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., CDT.
Community House No. 2 will also be open throughout the day for guests to explore during self-guided tours.
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At the Vincennes State Historical Site, visitors can learn more about Indiana's time as a territory by exploring the state's oldest town and former territorial capital from 1800-1813.
Guided tours will be offered at the original Territory Capital building, the Jefferson Academy, the Elihu Stout print shop and the Old French House, offering visitors insight on what life was like during Indiana's territorial period. Building tours will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., EDT.
Guests can also learn more about the area's importance as an early military outpost during self-guided tours at Fort Knox II.
The Indiana State Museum and Historical Site said the tours are first-come, first-served, and advanced registration is encouraged by calling the sites directly. Visitors can also go to their website for more information.
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