Welcome to the CAS Memorial Marker
A memorial to honor the hidden histories of enslaved Africans and their descendants in Poughkeepsie and the Hudson Valley.
𖡡 Waryas Park
Hidden Histories of the Hudson Valley
America’s story is filled with chapters often left untold. Among these are the crucial roles enslaved Africans and their descendants played in shaping the nation’s growth and prosperity from its earliest days. In New York State, including the Mid-Hudson Valley and the City of Poughkeepsie, this history remains largely unseen.
While monuments to former slaveholders are plenty, the lives and contributions of the enslaved are rarely acknowledged.
We are Celebrating The African Spirit, Inc., a Poughkeepsie-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, dedicated to correcting this omission.
Our mission is to commemorate and honor the enduring legacy of enslaved Africans and their descendants in our region.
A Marker Upholding History
Inaugurated on Juneteenth 2025 in Waryas Park, the C.A.S. Memorial Marker stands as proof of this mission. Years in the making, the project began as a student art initiative in partnership with The Art Effect, offering young artists of color meaningful creative opportunities and educating the public about the impact of enslaved Africans on Dutchess County’s development.
What You’ll See
Rooted in the Past: A Foundation of Strength
The lower portion of the Marker design is comprised of a 4-sided pyramid base in Corten steel, which has a bricklike patina. This pyramid base symbolizes the past.
Bas Relief Illustrations
Each side of the pyramid features layered Corten steel illustrations, creating a bas relief effect. Some images being more prominent, while others are in the background.
The flow throughout the Marker Illustration is based on the Sankofa bird, a West African symbol for learning from your past.
This shape also ties into the flow of the Hudson River.
The first 3 illustrations depict how enslaved Africans built much of Poughkeepsie and the surrounding areas.
Peace Rising Toward the Future
The reflective metal Bi Nka Bi symbol which forms the top of the sculpture, represents the future.
This symbol, which is an Adinkra icon, means “no one should bite the other”, and stands for Peace and Harmony. The C.A.S. logo is centered on the top.
Every Side Builds the Story
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From the Riverbanks: The Hands That Built the Hudson
Enslaved Africans are depicted arriving by boat from New Amsterdam and Albany, working on docks, in mills, and on ferries along the Hudson.
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Fields of Labor: The Backbone of Colonial Life
Enslaved people and an overseer at harvest highlight their vital roles in agriculture, domestic work, and sustaining households.
In colonial New York, wheat was a key crop, and enslaved people provided free labor on farms, cooking, sewing, and fulfilling many daily tasks.
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Brick by Brick: Unseen Builders of Poughkeepsie
Enslaved people physically built many of the brick and stone buildings still standing today in Poughkeepsie and throughout Dutchess County.
The next time you see a historic stone church or a striking brick mansion anywhere in the Mid-Hudson Valley, think about the hands and the people that built it.
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Looking Forward: A Vision of Equity and Belonging
A modern Black family stands on the Walkway Over The Hudson, gazing toward the horizon. The Hudson River has always played a key role in the history of Black people in the region.
This panel symbolizes hope and the vision for a more equitable future for all residents of Poughkeepsie.
A Community Effort: Young Artists, Local Voices, Lasting Impact
Concept and Illustration
Sculpture concept by Jason Umanzor, former Poughkeepsie High School student
Original illustration by Imyra Maxwell, Poughkeepsie High School graduate
Artistic Guidance
David Wong, professional artist and instructor at the Art Effect
Production
Isaac Zal (4th State Metals Co-Owner)
Kalimah Karim (C.A.S. Project Manager)
Words from the Dedication Ceremony Juneteenth 2025
“It falls to all of us to protect the past this new memorial contains from those who intend to re-invent it.”
— Katherine Hite, Professor of Political Science at Vassar College
“This… was a river of dreams and also a river of dread and despair.”
— Bill Jeffway,
“Let us remember them. It was their work that enabled the valley to grow and flourish.”
— Susan McIntosh
Remembering the Past to Shape a Just Tomorrow
As you visit, we invite you to reflect on the hidden histories that have shaped our community and to join us in celebrating the enduring spirit and contributions of those whose stories must never be forgotten.
Thank you for visiting and taking a moment to remember.