The first African slave arrived in Texas in 1528, but it took until June 19, 1865 to end slavery in the state. The anniversary of that day is celeberated as a Texas holiday. In honor of Juneteenth, this program explains the history of blacks in Texas from the early days to the present. The documentary also commemorates Alvin Patterson, who passed away in 2007. Patterson is the namesake of the annual Alvin Patterson Battle of the Bands and Drumline Competition, which takes place each year as part of the Juneteenth celebrations.
