NEWBURGH – It has been well over a dozen years since the remains of over 100 former slaves were unearthed from what was dubbed the “colored cemetery” when the Broadway School in Newburgh was being redeveloped as the city courthouse.
They were placed in the care of forensic scientists at SUNY New Paltz and after years of discussion, the city council has agreed to develop the “Newburgh Colored Burial Ground Memorial” in Downing Park.
City Planning Director Ali Church told the council Thursday night that a committee comprised of spiritual and community leaders as remaining descendants of the deceased concurred with the city council that the area of the park dubbed “The Top of the Circle” will be an ideal location.
“We all agree that it would make a very nice final resting place. The views are beautiful, the air, everything feels right up there,” she said.
It will take some time now to develop architectural plans for the memorial before actual work could be accomplished. When completed, a dedication ceremony will be held to honor the memories of those re-interred there.
