On Saturday, September 29, 2024, the African American Historical Society of Rockland County (AAHS) joined community members and local historians to unveil a historical marker dedicated to the Mine Hole in Piermont, New York. This event marked an important step in recognizing and preserving the legacy of an African American community that once thrived in this unique area near the Sparkill Creek.
During the ceremony, Jamila Brathwaite, President of AAHS, shared poignant remarks about the significance of the Mine Hole and the people who made it their home. “The AAHS is proud to take part in the dedication of this historical marker at the Mine Hole site. This dedication honors the legacy of the people of African descent who made this community their home,” she said. Brathwaite highlighted how the residents of the Mine Hole, despite facing economic and social challenges, created a vibrant, tight-knit community that was both scrappy and full of warmth.
The Mine Hole neighborhood, known for its passageways carved into the rock and a deep shaft that dispensed pure water, was much more than its physical attributes. It was a place where neighbors shared both the joys and hardships of life, forging a network of support and solidarity. Many of its residents, who came from the South to work in local industries, left an indelible mark on Rockland County’s history—working in the mills, building the region, and contributing to its culture. From laborers to teachers, many prominent community members had roots in this often-overlooked neighborhood.
Brathwaite continued, “The installation of this marker reflects the ongoing commitment to reclaiming and preserving African American history in the region and ensuring that these untold stories are shared with future generations. This recognition is an important step in acknowledging the contributions of those whose labor built the foundation of our community today.”
The unveiling of the Mine Hole marker, a project led by the Piermont Historical Society, represents not only a reclamation of African American heritage but also a broader effort to ensure that the vibrant history of communities like this one is not forgotten. The dedication honors the resilience, hard work, and cultural contributions of the African American residents who helped shape Rockland County and reinforces the importance of keeping their stories alive for future generations.
As the marker now stands proudly in Piermont, it serves as a reminder that history is not just written in the textbooks but in the lives, struggles, and triumphs of those who came before us.
Read more about the Mine Hole: https://aahsmuseum.org/dt_portfolios/piermont-mine-hole/
