Hey folks! February is Black History Month—a time to honor and celebrate the incredible contributions of African Americans throughout our nation’s history. It’s a chance to reflect on the struggles and triumphs that have shaped our society and to recognize the rich cultural heritage that African Americans have brought to the table.
Now, when we talk about Black history, it’s not just about the big national stories; it’s also about the local tales that have played out right here in our own backyard. In Upstate New York—specifically Oneida, Herkimer, Otsego, Fulton, Montgomery, and Schoharie Counties—we’ve got a tapestry of stories that highlight the resilience and contributions of Black communities.
For instance, in Little Falls, there’s a significant African American burial ground in the Church Street Cemetery, reflecting a history that dates back to the times of slavery and extends to more recent commemorations. In 2015, Little Falls took an important step in acknowledging its African American history with the dedication of a monument at the Church Street Cemetery. Historically known as the “Colored Burial Ground,” this section of the cemetery held the remains of at least 77 African Americans, many of whom were buried without gravestones due to discrimination in both life and death.
Former city historian Edwin Vogt spearheaded the effort to establish this long-overdue tribute, partnering with the Little Falls Historical Society and local funeral director Harry Enea to bring the project to life. Thanks to the generosity of the Enea Family Funeral Home, Burdick Enea Memorials, and the Historical Society, the monument was installed and dedicated in a community-wide ceremony.
The event featured speeches from local leaders, including Reverend Robert Williams of Utica’s Hope Chapel AME Zion Church, then-Historical Society President Louis Baum, and Mayor Robert Peters, who accepted the monument on behalf of the city. The ceremony concluded with a solemn playing of Taps, underscoring the significance of the moment.
The inscription on the monument serves as both a remembrance and a call to justice:
“In memory of those early African Americans who were discriminated against in both life and death. Denied equality, few gravestones exist in this section referred to as ‘Colored Burial Ground.’ It is for us, the living, to rectify this wrong by granting this tribute of remembrance and respect.”
The dedication of this monument represents a small but meaningful effort to acknowledge and correct past injustices, ensuring that the contributions and struggles of Little Falls’ African American community are never forgotten.
This month, our local communities are hosting a variety of events to celebrate and educate. Here’s a rundown of what’s happening:
NAACP Rome Chapter’s Black History Month Celebration
- Date & Time: Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 6:30 PM
- Location: Rome Free Academy Auditorium
- Details: Join an inspiring evening of music, poetry, storytelling, and more, honoring the theme of “African Americans and Labor.” This event is free and open to the public, sponsored by the African American Heritage Association (AAHA), the Rome City School District, and the NAACP Rome NY Branch.
Black History Month Storytime
- Date & Time: Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at 10:30 AM
- Location: Jervis Public Library, Rome
- Details: Children will enjoy stories written by Black authors. Refreshments and fun gifts will be available at the event.
Documentary Screening: “High on the Hog: How African Cuisine Transformed America”
- Date & Time: To Be Announced
- Location: To Be Announced
- Details: Hosted by Rome Connected and the NAACP, this screening will include a community meal featuring a “make your own” macaroni and cheese bar.
Workshop: Navigating the Civil Service System and State Jobs
- Date & Time: Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM
- Location: Jervis Public Library, Rome
- Details: Presented by the Rome NAACP, this workshop aims to guide attendees through the civil service system and provide insights into state employment opportunities.
Discussion: The History of Policing People of Color
- Date & Time: Monday, February 17, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
- Location: Zion Episcopal Church, Rome
- Details: Dr. Clemmie Harris, a Utica University professor and community advocate, will lead a discussion on the historical context of policing in communities of color.
These events offer a fantastic opportunity to come together, learn, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Black history that is an integral part of our community. So, mark your calendars, bring your friends and family, and let’s honor Black History Month with the respect and enthusiasm it deserves.
Let’s make this Black History Month a time of learning, reflection, and unity. See you at the events!
Cemetery Photos From the Little Falls Historical Society
