Slavery's Impact on American Foodways: A Juneteenth Celebration

at Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site

6/19/2026 | Watkins Mill State Park and Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site | Lawson, Mo.

The Atlantic slave trade was the largest forced migration in history, and it revolutionized global food culture. In this program celebrating Juneteenth and the end of slavery in the United States, interpreters will be making and discussing dishes that demonstrate slavery's impacts on American foodways.

Stop by by the summer kitchen and the Watkins house porch between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to enjoy samples and discover ingredients, recipes and cooking techniques that Africans and their descendants brought to the Americas. 

Admission is free and open to the public. There is no need to register.

Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and Historic Site Contact Information:

  • Address: 26600 Park Road N., Lawson, Mo.
  • Phone number: 816-580-3387