Governor Patrick Leads Remarks at Ceremony for Bradley Square > read article NAACP AND BRADLEY SQUARE TEAM UP Organization to Have Permanent Home at Historic Site 102 years ago, Reverend Oscar E. Denniston, a minister originally from the West Indies, renamed a small missionary in the heart of Oak Bluffs after its founder and his mentor, Susan Bradley, and started the first African-American church on Martha’s Vineyard. For over a half-century, the Bradley Memorial Church was the center of black heritage and culture on Martha’s Vineyard. Although Rev. Denniston became so popular that a summer church was added to handle the congregation as Denniston enjoyed immense popularity and respect on the Island, it was this year-round church that was considered an integral piece of what made Oak Bluffs the capital of black summer life throughout the country. The church provided spiritual guidance, religious education, community development, social life, and involvement in humanitarian causes from 1907-1966. The church has been featured in documentaries and is part of the Martha’s Vineyard African-American Heritage Trail. Bradley Square, press release: read Bradley Appeal letter: read Get involved with your community. We are always looking for volunteers. > more Support our programs and services... donate money, goods, or services. > more Join our organization and help improve life on the Island. > more Join our mailing list and stay connected to what is happening on the Island. > more

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