Springfield’s annual Juneteenth Celebration honors the courage and bravery of George and Sarah Gammon, who offered solace and shelter to escaping slaves seeking freedom on the underground railroad. One of only three such “stops” in Ohio, The Gammon House was built in 1850 -- the same year that the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 imposed six months' imprisonment and a massive $1,000 fine on any person aiding a runaway slave by providing food or shelter.
In addition to celebrating the Gammon House, this year’s event honors “Good Dads” of the area, by combining with another popular event – Urban Light Ministries annual FatherFest. The day promises to be rich with activity, beginning with a 5K Run/Walk through southwest historic Springfield along the Little Miami Bikeway, starting at 8 am at the Gammon House Green.
The fun continues to 2 pm with:
- Annual “Good Dad Awards” at 1 PM
- Quilt Exhibits of renowned textile artist Aminah Robinson
- Underground Quilt by Derinda Garrett, and Children’s Quilt Designs
- Free Bike Helmets with proper fitting
- A Community Health Foundation Resource Tent with 16 exhibitors
- Free COVID Vaccinations provided by the Clark County Combined Health District
- Music and Food Trucks!
How to Go:
Date: Saturday, June 19th
Time: 8 AM (5K run/walk) - 10 AM Resource Tent and COVID vaccinations
Location: Gammon House, 620 Piqua Place, Springfield
Cost: Registration for 5K $18.00 (Includes t-shirt if registered by June 10th)
All other events FREE
