Melrose Juneteenth Luminary set for June 19th

Natchez National Historical Park will present a luminary
on the front lawn of the estate that will honor the lives of those who were
enslaved at the property. About 700 lights will be displayed.

The event is free and open to the public.

“This grand illumination will be held in remembrance of
the nearly 700 enslaved people who involuntarily labored at Melrose and on the
associated cotton plantations of John and Mary Louisa McMurran,” said Lead
Historian Jeff Mansell.

Dr. David Slay, chief of interpretation for the Natchez National Historical Park, displays one of the many lights that will be displayed in honor of those where enslaved at the Melrose property. (Click on image to enlarge.)

Dr. David Slay, chief of interpretation, highlighted the
significance of the lights. “Each light represents a human soul: a three
dimensional being with hopes, dreams, and dignity,” he said.  “The
luminary will provide a powerful visual representation of the human cost of
Melrose.”

On the day of the luminary, the Melrose front gate will
close at 5:00 p.m. and reopen at 7:30 p.m. Visitors are asked to park in
the main parking lot and walk to the lower portion of the front lawn where an
area will be set aside specifically for solemn reflection.

The public is encouraged to bring lawn chairs and
flashlights. The observation will conclude at 9:30, and the gates will close at
10:00 p.m.

Slay said he is excited about the event, which will be
held for the first time. “It would be nice if other houses follow suit in
future years,” he said.

For more information, visit www.nps.gov/natc