The Cottagers, Inc., an African American women’s philanthropic organization of Martha’s Vineyard home owners is pleased to announce their sponsorship of the third annual African American Cultural Festival from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 28 and Friday, July 29. In addition a special program for children ages six to 12 is planned fro Tuesday, July 26.

The festival events will take place in the Cottager’s building on Pequot avenue in Oak Bluffs and in Hartfort Park in front of the Cottagers’ building. There will be vendors selling a wide variety of interesting African and African American artifacts. Home accessories, jewelry, sculpture, paintings, clothing and baskets are among some of the items included for sale. Booths with informative pertinent material will be available describing the services of non-profit organizations in the surrounding communities. The Cornerway Restaurant will be on hand with delicious ethnic foods featuring Caribbean and African American menus.

One booth The Cottagers, Inc. are particularly proud to present and display is the half century history of our unique fellowship as shown in pictures, newspaper articles, publications and correspondence from the many agencies, programs and scholarship recipients that have benefited from The Cottagers’ outreach programs. Another booth that is of great interest is the Slavery Museum entitled Lest We Forget which will be upstairs in the Cottagers’ building. The Slavery Museum is a private collection of Mr. and Mrs. J. Justin Ragsdale and is dedicated to the preservation of slavery and Jim Crow memorabilia. This is a rare opportunity to see and learn about the history of many of these items on display.

In addition to the events on Thursday and Friday, children ages six to 12 have the additional opportunity to participate in a special arts, crafts and history program on Tuesday, July 26. Children will receive instruction in a craft project designed to increase their awareness and interest in the heritage of the African American. The Cottagers’ Inc. are fortunate to have talented and experienced members who are able to provide excellent programs for the children.