In celebration of Juneteenth, America250PA Bedford County is hosting a series of events this weekend, featuring guest speakers to spark conversations and commemorate Black history in the region.

Author David Bradley, whose sessions are slated for 5 p.m. Friday at the Omni Bedford Springs Resort and 2 p.m. Saturday at the Bedford County Historical Society, will speak about Black history in Bedford County and the appropriateness of celebrating the Declaration of Independence during slavery.

Local historian and author Kevin Mearkle will also speak at 2 p.m. Saturday at the county historical society, sharing information about the Underground Railroad in Bedford County.

A memorial ceremony and wreath laying will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at Imes Cemetery near Chaneysville, where several runaway slaves were buried.

To inform visitors about Juneteenth’s history, Bradley plans to begin with a reading, along with providing information about local history and quotations from individuals who called the county home.

He will also recommend the historical fiction novel “Summer of Meteors” written by Bedford novelist Kris Schaale, which tells a story about the Underground Railroad in Bedford, featuring former President James Buchanan and his niece, who stayed at the Bedford Springs.

“There is a reason to be in touch with Bedford County and its history,” Bradley said, adding that his novel, “The Chaneyville Incident,” incorporates local legends about 13 runaway slaves who killed themselves to avoid being caught and returned.

“It’s a rich source, and I’m lucky to have it,” he said.

Bedford America250PA committee member Landon Defibaugh said Bradley’s inclusion in the upcoming event is significant, as attendees can understand both the good and bad details of American history.

“You have to know your history to know where you came from, and it’s important to learn our history, good and bad, in the 250 years of America,” he said.

Mirror Staff Writer Colette Costlow is at 814-946-7414.