Join us at Hale Farm & Village to celebrate Juneteenth and experience life in 1872, a transformative year in America's Reconstruction Era. The citizens of Wheatfield are buzzing with excitement about the upcoming election, and visitors are invited to step into this vibrant moment in history. You’ll have the chance to explore the town—gather your mail, browse the general store for new goods, reconnect with friends, or attend a political debate by an up-and-coming Ohio politician.

This immersive living history experience brings to life the struggles and triumphs of the Reconstruction period. Explore how the Emancipation Proclamation, the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments reshaped the nation, and gain insight into the ongoing fight for civil rights and equality. Discover the historical context through primary sources and media from the time, including an evocative lithograph featuring a powerful quote from South Carolina Congressman Robert B. Elliott: “What you give to one class you must give to all. What you deny to one class, you deny to all.”

The event offers a chance to reflect on the journey toward freedom and citizenship and the challenges faced by African Americans in the years following the Civil War. Engage with the complex issues of the era, including voting rights, the impact of the media, and the promise of the Reconstruction Amendments, all while experiencing the rich, lived history of Wheatfield. This is more than just a historical event—it’s an invitation to reflect on the past, the present, and the ongoing pursuit of justice for all.