Relive the Dedication Ceremony

A Marker Dedicated to History

Inaugurated Juneteenth 2025, the CAS Memorial marker stands as a testament to the legacy of the Hudson Valley’s enslaved Africans and their descendants. The ceremony brought historians, community members, academics and families together to celebrate the contributions of Poughkeepsie’s ancestors.

Spoken Words of History

Explore remarks from Poughkeepsie community members and leaders during the dedication ceremony.

Why Memorials Matter

A Tribute to the Celebrating the African Spirit Memorial Marker

By Katherine Hite

CAS Co-Chair and Co-Founder, Professor of Political Science at Vassar College

Read Remarks

On Recognizing the Enslaved Men and Women Who Built the Mill at Upper Landing

By Susan McIntosh

CAS Research Chair

On Enslavement and the River

By Bill Jeffway

Executive Director of Dutchess Historical Society

Support the maintenance and beautification of Poughkeepsie’s new marker at Waryas Park.

Donate>