100 Black Women Serving the Vineyard for 70 Years

As part of its 70th Anniversary celebration, The Cottagers, Incorporated welcomed a sold-out audience to the Martha's Vineyard Museum on June 11 for "100 Black Women Serving the Vineyard for 70 Years." The special panel discussion offered an inspiring look at the organization's remarkable history, its enduring commitment to service, and the lasting impact The Cottagers have made on Martha's Vineyard since 1956.

Moderated by Linda C. Moffat, the conversation featured Patricia R. Bush, Jennifer Smith Turner, Leah Brown, and Jocelyn Coleman Walton, who shared personal stories, historical perspectives, and reflections on the values that have guided generations of Cottagers. Together, they explored the organization's origins, the significance of Cottagers' Corner, and the spirit of service that continues to shape its work today.

The audience also learned the little-known story of how Cottagers' Corner became the organization's permanent home through an unexpected act of allyship -- a reminder that community is often built through shared purpose and partnership.

The program served as the official kickoff to The Cottagers' Summer of Celebration, leading to the Grand Reopening of the newly restored Cottagers' Corner. More than a retrospective, the evening reaffirmed the organization's enduring mission of service, philanthropy, and cultural stewardship—one that continues to strengthen Martha's Vineyard 70 years after its founding.