Beginning with the arrival of the Amistad into Vineyard Haven harbor Thursday through a gospel brunch in Edgartown on Monday, the Vineyard celebrated Juneteenth with joy and reverence.
Weekend Juneteenth events continue, including tours of the Amistad, a replica of the historic vessel that was the setting of a slave revolt in 1839. The cultural festival, originally scheduled for Saturday in the Tabernacle is now at Union Chapel, beginning at 3 p.m.
When the Amistad schooner sails into Vineyard Haven harbor on June 16, it will bring with it a story of oppression and triumph, of enslavement and freedom.
The schooner Amistad, a replica of the historic ship that became famous after a group of enslaved Africans led a successful revolt and won their freedom in the U.S. Supreme Court, will drop anchor at Martha’s Vineyard for Juneteenth weekend.
The 129-foot Freedom topsail schooner Amistad was the celebrated
guest of the Vineyard community this weekend, and will be back for
another visit. Capt. William (Bill) Pinkney said on Sunday the community
welcome received by the ship and her crew went beyond everyone's
expectations. As a result, they hope to return.
"The response here was just exceptional," the captain said.