Free Tours of Oakland’s Historic African American Burial Grounds

In celebration of Juneteenth 2023, Historic Oakland Foundation is proud to debut a brand-new walking tour focused on the lives of African Americans after gaining freedom and as they work toward economic and social development. This Reconstruction Era tour of the African American Burial Grounds includes the stories of African Americans who reconstructed their lives after emancipation and went on to shape Atlanta’s rich legacy of African American culture and achievement. You’ll hear from actors portraying several residents as they share their stories and journey as they navigated new times. Each tour lasts approximately 40 minutes.

Tours are free but you’ll need to sign up to save your spot. Tour signups are available on-site.

Tours begin at the historic African American Burial Grounds.

10:30 a.m.
11:30 a.m
Noon
12:30 p.m.
1 p.m.

Storyteller LaDoris Bias Davis will present Gullah Geechee tales for all ages at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

The Big Bethel AME Heaven Bound Choir will perform a libation ceremony at the Cemetery’s historic African American Burial Grounds at 11:00 a.m. followed by a short performance. A libations ceremony is a pouring of a liquid as a way to honor one’s ancestors. 

Veronika Jackson is a singer/songwriter whose compelling music draws inspiration from both blues heritage and the 1960s folk music movement.

Performances at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 12:30 p.m.

Happening Throughout the Day

• DJ
• Vendor Market
• Crafts and Snacks for Kids
• Dobie’s Catering Food Truck
• Family Records Search
• African American Burial Grounds Cell Phone Tour