Discovering the Trail
Discover more about the Island’s history with a walking tour of the African American Heritage Trail. The trail is a compilation of 30 sites dedicated to previously unrecognized contributions made by people of African heritage to the island of Martha’s Vineyard. Each site features a commemorative plaque describing its significance.
The Origins and Mission
The African American Heritage Trail History Project, a non-profit corporation, is responsible for creating and maintaining the trail. Their mission is to research, identify, and share the history of African American contributions to the island. Most importantly, the organization places bronze plaques at each site to honor those individuals and their legacies.
The project is also a community effort, encouraging education and engagement across the island. As part of that mission, history students from Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School have acted as research assistants, tour guides, site maintenance staff, mural painters, website developers, and musicians. Many graduates of the program now return each summer to share their knowledge with visitors.
Keeping History Alive
The Trail’s ongoing mission is to uncover previously undocumented history and celebrate the significant contributions of people of color on Martha’s Vineyard. By involving the community and highlighting these stories, the Trail ensures that this vital history is never forgotten.
Tour Options and Experiences
Visitors can choose from several guided tours led by expert guides:
- Oak Bluffs Tour ($40)
- Oak Bluffs and Edgartown Tour ($60)
- All Island Tour ($80) – not a walking tour; includes a stop at the Aquinnah Cliffs
Tours can be booked directly through the MV African-American Heritage Trail website. In addition, the organization offers books to support its mission, such as Lighting the Trail: African American Heritage Trail of Martha’s Vineyard by founders Elaine Cawley Weintraub and Carrie Camillo Tankard.
Why You Should Visit
Exploring the African-American Heritage Trail is more than a sightseeing opportunity, it’s a chance to connect with the deep cultural roots of Martha’s Vineyard and honor the stories of those who shaped its history. Whether you take a short walking tour or the full island experience, you’ll gain insights into the resilience, creativity, and contributions of the African American community.
Stay Connected With the Trail
For more information, visit the Vineyard Gazette for related articles, or follow the African American Heritage Trail on Facebook and Instagram for updates and events.