HOUSTON, Texas (May 23, 2025) —Starting June 7, 2025, The Heritage Society at 1100 Bagby Street invites visitors to explore the rich tapestry of Houston’s Black history through two immersive tours, each offering a distinct perspective on the journey from enslavement to emancipation. Held every Saturday and on Juneteenth (June 19), these experiences pay tribute to the resilience of communities once confined by oppression.
The Juneteenth Tea Cakes Tour guides visitors through three historic houses designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory under their “Slave Route Project.” Guests will step into the 1847 Kellum-Noble House, the 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage, and the 1870 Yates House to uncover untold stories of enslaved individuals and the communities that emerged after freedom was declared on June 19, 1865.
“These sites are more than buildings; they are living memorials that tell the story of determination and the enduring spirit of a people who fought for their rightful place in our community,” said Alison Bell, executive director of The Heritage Society. “Our tour not only preserves history but also celebrates traditions that continue to inspire us today.”
For those seeking a dramatic narrative, the Visit Houston Signature Experience for the Soul, “From Plantation to Emancipation Tour,” offers a 90-minute journey enriched with theatrical performance. Actress Kijanna Wiseman vividly portrays the struggles and eventual triumph of freedom through song and dramatic interpretation. The performance is guided by a script written by Martha Whiting-Goddard—a descendant of Reverend Jack Yates—adding an emotional depth that connects the present to past legacies.
Two of the historic houses were relocated from the Fourth Ward and hold a particularly significant place in Houston’s history. Following emancipation, the Fourth Ward transformed into one of the city’s most vibrant African American communities, a testament to the resilience and innovation of freed individuals. Once known as Freedmen’s Town, the area became a beacon of hope where residents built a community from the ground up despite challenging conditions.
“The Fourth Ward is the heartbeat of Houston’s Black heritage,” Bell said. “It stands as a testament to how the liberated Jack Yates, through sheer determination and ingenuity, transformed hardship into a thriving community that continues to inspire future generations.”
Traditional tea cakes and red punch—an enduring Juneteenth custom—round out the experience, with Twin Eagle proudly sponsoring these treats for both tours.
Tickets for the two tours are $17 and $25 per adult, visit www.heritagesociety.org/juneteenth or contact info@heritagesociety.org for group tours. Free parking is located at 212 Dallas Street.