Community members honor Nantucket's history at Colored Cemetery remembrance event

In a heartfelt gathering at Nantucket's Town Hall, community members came together to honor the legacy of the Historic Colored Cemetery, a site rich with stories and memories. The meeting, held on June 2, 2025, was marked by personal reflections and a shared commitment to preserving the history of those buried there.

As the discussions unfolded, attendees expressed their deep connections to the cemetery, with many sharing their family ties to the island. Nick Duarte, an islander, opened the floor by inviting others to introduce themselves and their familial connections to the cemetery. This prompted a wave of stories, each revealing the unique histories of Nantucket's residents. Janet Hudson spoke passionately about her Jamaican heritage and the importance of honoring figures like Charles Seacole, while Robert Peaker reminisced about his arrival on the island in 1955 and the roots he planted here through family.

The gathering also highlighted the importance of education and remembrance. Young Noah Leonardo Finger, just ten years old, shared how participating in the event taught him respect for elders, emphasizing the value of intergenerational connections. Others, like Vanessa Moore, a fifth-generation islander, stressed the need to keep the stories alive for future generations, ensuring that the rich history of Nantucket is not forgotten.

The meeting also touched on practical matters, such as the recent ground-penetrating radar work conducted by the water company, which reassured attendees about the cemetery's integrity and the absence of graves near the hospital. This technical detail underscored the community's commitment to preserving the site while addressing modern concerns.

As the event drew to a close, Neville Rich, a long-time resident, reflected on the significance of the moment, noting that the timing felt perfect for such a gathering. The meeting not only served as a platform for sharing personal histories but also as a call to action for the community to continue honoring and educating others about the cemetery's legacy.

With plans for a film to further explore these narratives, the attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, eager to ensure that the stories of Nantucket's Historic Colored Cemetery remain alive for generations to come.