Source: Estebon the Moor Kathleen Howell, Kathleen Howell, Texas Black History Preservation Project
Source: Estebon the Moor Kathleen Howell, Kathleen Howell, Texas Black History Preservation Project
African Americans have been a part of the Texan identity since Esteban, pictured above, came to Texas with a Spanish explorer, Cabeza de Vaca. During Spanish rule, freed African Americans were allowed to live in Texas. Slavery was not allowed in Texas under the Spanish and Mexican governments; however, many of the Anglo-American settlers came to Texas and brought slaves with them. Even more brought slaves to Texas during the Republic of Texas, and the slave population exploded until slavery ended in Texas in 1865.
Slaves that were brought to Texas came from many places, and they brought with them elements of their culture. Some brought customs and languages from Africa, while others brought cooking and traditions from other parts of the United States. No matter where they came from, once in Texas, they contributed to the culture.
As in other cultures, African-American cuisine has become an important part of Texan cuisine. Food in the African-American community is reflective of the southern food that was brought to Texas by slaves. The economic condition of most slaves required that they cooked what they could grow, raise, or catch. As a result, the African-American cuisine is similar to southern cooking, which includes fried catfish, various types of beans, and field greens.
Source: Buttermilk battered catfish, blogspot
Source: Buttermilk battered catfish, blogspot
Through times of bondage and freedom, African Americans contributed to the Texan identity in ways similar to that of Anglos and immigrant groups.
Free and enslaved African Americans worked in the agricultural industry while some participated in rodeos. One in particular, Bill Pickett, was known as a famous rodeo performer. Pickett became famous for his tricks, such as, biting a bull on the lip to bring the animal down.
Although, Pickett was born in Travis County, he worked in Oklahoma where he is celebrated with an annual rodeo that features African-American riders from other states.
At times, the African-American community has lived parallel but segregated lives in Texas. For this reason, African Americans were forced to attend segregated schools and churches. Today, education and religion remain important to the African-American community and the source of many cultural activities.
Source: About us 5, Texas Southern University
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Texas have always provided a place for cultural activities that promote the religious, artistic, and social lives of African Americans. HBCUs in Texas are an option for all Texas students, and many are in existence today. Many African-American leaders in Texas were educated at these institutions. Click here to learn more:
One of the most notable celebrations in the African-American community is the celebration of Juneteenth. Juneteenth commemorates the day that Union soldiers informed the citizens of Texas that slavery had ended and that anyone in bondage was free. The official day of freedom was January 1, 1863, however, Major General Gordon Granger did not reach Galveston, Texas until June 19, 1965, nearly two years later.
Source: Emancipation Day celebration – 1900-06-19
Source: S36000084m Juneteenth Central Texas
In Texas, there are parades, concerts, and festivals in major cities where the entire community celebrates. The State of Texas recognized Juneteenth, or Emancipation Day as a state holiday. Events include performances that honor African traditions. Other states also celebrate Juneteenth, and its observance has become a worldwide event.
African Americans account for 12 percent of all Texans. There are civic clubs and social organizations that promote awareness of African-American culture in Texas. The African-American culture remains intertwined in the Texan identity. African Americans have moved from living segregated lives in Texas to lives that contribute to the overall Texas identity every day.
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Through African-American churches and educational institutes, African Americans can continue to take part in traditional activities.
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Juneteenth, or Emancipation Day is celebrated in Texas and throughout the country.