The Cottagers is a philanthropic organization comprised of about 100 women of color who are property owners on Martha’s Vineyard. The organization recently celebrated its 50th year of fundraising and continuing financial assistance to various programs on the Island.

Cottagettes to Perform:

Cottagers’ History Program

The Oak Bluffs Historical Commission will sponsor a program depicting the history of the Cottagers, Inc. in Oak Bluffs on Wednesday, July 30 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Oak Bluffs Library meeting room.

The Cottagers’ 26th annual House Tour will be held on Thursday, July 17, rain or shine. In the fine tradition of distinctive homes associated with the event, five cottages will be on tour.

Two cottages are on Ocean avenue across from Ocean Park, and two houses and the historical Shearer Cottage are in the area of East Chop known as the Highlands.

By BETTYE FOSTER BAKER

The Cottagers, Inc. 28th Annual House Tour, titled Architectural Treasures, Past and Present will be held on Thursday, July 15, rain or shine. In the fine tradition of distinctive homes associated with the tour, five residences will be featured.

The spirit of community, fellowship and Vineyard charms permeate the walls of the five houses being presented by the Cottagers for the 28th annual Cottager House Tour on July 21. The houses represent a diverse group in style and age. Some remain similar to the original houses built around the middle of the 19th century, others are the newly built or refurbished homes of today with current amenities. The owners love their houses passionately and are engaged in the community around them. The names on some houses reflect the owners’ love of the Vineyard.

The Highlands, as they are familiarly known, are located on East Chop, the general boundary being laid out like the Methodist Camp Ground in Oak Bluffs, with a central circle ringed by house lots along curving avenues.