Governor Healey and State Representative Cyr helped with cutting the ribbon at the ceremony. – Dena Porter 
MV Garden Club members presented Governor Healey with a lovely bouquet of flowers. – Dena Porter 
The Cottagers were deeply appreciative that the Governor and State Representative participated in this historic event. – Dena Porter 
Some of the 100 Cottagers were dressed in white and purple for the Cottagers’ opening. – Dena Porter
Updated June 26
Gov. Maura Healey honored The Cottagers, a nonprofit in Oak Bluffs composed of African-American women homeowners on the Island, for their philanthropic efforts.
At the nonprofit’s grand re-opening of its headquarters on Wednesday, June 24, commemorating its 70th anniversary, Healey awarded The Cottagers with a Governor’s Citation. This is an official recognition given by the governor’s office to individuals and organizations to acknowledge milestones, such as anniversaries, birthdays, and positive deeds.
“We commend your ongoing efforts to support charitable educational community service projects built by African-American women homeowners,” Healey said.
Cottager Charlena Seymour welcomed attendees to the renovated space.
“Welcome home, Cottagers. We are crazy in love with our building,” Seymour said. “We celebrate more than a renovated building. We celebrate the countless members, leaders, volunteers, and supporters whose dedication has sustained this organization and made this moment awesome.”
Founded in 1956 by Thelma Garland Smith, the nonprofit aims to support educational and community service initiatives on the Island, such as through scholarships awarded to graduating high school students and partnerships with other community organizations. Currently, The Cottagers boast 100 members.
In 1968, The Cottagers purchased their current headquarters, Cottagers Corner on 57 Pequot Avenue. After a routine building inspection in 2019 revealed significant deterioration of the property’s foundation, the group began planning renovations. Improvements made to the building include the additions of an elevator, accessible restrooms, an upgraded kitchen, and structural repairs.
Cottagers Vice President Linda Silva Thompson blessed the new building.
“This is our inheritance. This is our holy ground,” Thompson said. “This is our special quarter who sacrificed giving and providing the funds to preserve this important gathering place for generations.”
Cottagers President Patricia Bush reflected on the renovation process.
“The renovation of Cottagers Corner was guided by a vision larger than construction alone. The goal was to preserve the spirit and historical character of the building, while thoughtfully preparing it for future generations,” Bush said. “Every decision was shaped by the desire to honor what Cottagers Corner had meant in the past and to create a renewed space that could continue serving a diverse community of women with dignity, warmth, and purpose.”
Gov. Healey emphasized the strength of The Cottagers’ community throughout the years.
“They understood something that I think we need to be reminded of today, that communities and villages, they don’t just happen by accident,” Healey said. “They happen because people brought intentionality and energy and community spirit together.”
Healey also expressed commitment to continued support for the organization.
“We have an obligation to support you in your stewardship,” she said. “Happy 70th anniversary, and may Cottagers Corner continue to shine as a beacon of community heritage, hope, and joy for generations to come.”
Following the speeches, the Martha’s Vineyard Garden Club presented Gov. Healey with floral arrangements before she and Cottagers members cut the ribbon to inaugurate the building.
Healey highlighted to The Times the importance of promoting the cultural heritage organizations like The Cottagers preserve.
“Whatever we can do by way of cultural educational programming and grants that would benefit an organization like The Cottagers is something you know I hope we can always support,” she said.
Editor’s note: A previous version of this story misspelled Charlena Seymour’s first name as Charlene.