In praise of Cottagers
One Hundred members strong
Black women at the nexus
For so long done wrong
“Ain’t I a woman”
Sojourner’s truth
“I’m sick and tired
of being sick and tired”
Fannie Lou’s plea
Last to vote
Last to be free
No longer another’s ploy
The dawn is what they see
As Cottagers show what can be
With purpose and deed
Founded in 1956
A Black sisterhood
Roots itself in charitable causes
Making home ownership
Requisite to membership
Symbolically dignified
In a prestigious veneer
Cloaked in attitude
Of Black women’s pride
Is their Cottagers Corner
Where community service thrives
As shades of purple hydrangeas
Blossom with success
At 57 Pequot Ave.
This article appears in August 21, 2026.
Harry, you are so amazingly talented and gifted in so many ways. We love, respect and appreciate you more than words can convey. Thank you for this memorable art piece & poem commemorating 70th Cottagers Anniversary. Love also to our Cottager sister, Charlena Seymour, the love of your life.
Sir Harry Seymour, You are an inspiration to all of our Cottagers Sisters, WOW, this amazing art work donated to our Fundraising efforts is inspirational in that the world is to believe that all things are possible with hope, faith, and prayer.
As Dr King stated: If something isn’t done and in a hurry, to bring the COLORED PEOPLES of the world out of their long years of poverty, their long years of hurt and neglect, the whole world is doomed”.
Thank You my Brother in Christ, Dr. Lorna
Again Harry, thanks for your poem and artwork for the Cottagers 70 anniversary and preserving the legacy of this special place and people!