Vineyard and Roxbury legacy families were in full display at the much-anticipated wedding of Carolyn Allston and Jethro Trenteetu at the Old Whaling Church in Edgartown last Saturday.

The bride’s great-grandfather Phillip Allston (1860-1915) came to the Highlands in Oak Bluffs in 1902. He was a gifted chemist who worked for the Weeks and Potter Wholesale Druggist firm in Boston. His talents contributed significantly to the success of the company after it was purchased by George Robert White, a Boston entrepreneur and philanthropist.

Carolyn’s parents, Carroll and Myrna Allston, planned a magnificent reception at a grand estate in West Tisbury after the service, which was presided over by Rev. Willie Broderick II. The 10 bridesmaids and accompanying groomsmen took their seats at a large table on the edge of the dance floor. Roxbury and Vineyard families were represented by Blair Bolling, Gus and Millie Anglin, Manny and Laura Horne, Frank and Sharon Redd, Bobby Redd and Ed and Shirley Redd, whose daughter Rachel was best friend of the bride.

Myrna is a member of The Cottagers and several of them were present to cheer on the bride including president Olivia Baxter, Stephanie Browne, Ann Stewart, Diane Welburn, Joyce Graves, Gretchen Coleman Thomas, Cheryl Grimes and Kim Washington, among others.

The rains from the sky were overwhelmed by the sunshine and warmth from the 200-plus guests who wined, dined and danced into the late evening.

The Inkwell end of season cookout is officially taking place this Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m.! As in the past, attendees should bring a dish, dessert, beverages, plates, napkins, cups and ice. All food should be brought in disposable containers. Contact Vivian Beard or Cheryl Grimes for more specifics.

The four-part series The Making of Black America: Through the Grapevine, curated by our own Professor Skip Gates, began this past Tuesday on PBS. Local summer residents Flash and Bennie Wiley are seen playing bid whist with Ron Sullivan and yours truly on the trailer to the production. This well-known card game started for many in college. In the documentary it is a prism for serious conversation in between card hands.

The focus is on how Black Americans established networks, clubs and organizations to find peace and comfort behind the “veil.” Poignant commentary is also provided by Professor Evelyn Higginbotham. You will not want to miss the next three segments!

Paradise on earth is living the Vineyard experience. Enjoy it as life is fleeting!