Martha's Vineyard in Oak Bluffs in Dukes County, Massachusetts — The American Northeast (New England)
Shearer Cottage
Photographed by J. Makali Bruton, June 21, 2021
1. Shearer Cottage Marker
Charles Shearer was born into slavery in Appomattox, Virginia. In 1880, he graduated from Hampton Institute and served on the faculty for twelve years. Later, Charles and his wife, Henrietta, purchased two homes, in Everett, Mass. and Oak Bluffs, adjacent to the Baptist Campground. For many years, friends and family were invited to vacation with the Shearers. The concept of the first inn welcoming African-Americans on Martha's Vineyard was born in the 1920's. Shearer Cottage, famous for fine food and warm hospitality, was visited by guests from all over the country and became the center of African-American activities on the Island.
Erected by African-American Heritage Trail of Martha's Vineyard. (Marker Number 10.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1880.
Location. 41° 27.692′ N, 70° 33.97′ W. Marker is in Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts, in Dukes County. It is on Martha's Vineyard. It is on Morgan Avenue north of Glenwood Avenue, on the left when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is in
this page online
Regionally, this marker is on Massachusetts’ Marthas Vineyard. It is also in the American Northeast and in New England. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once one of the original Thirteen Colonies.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Coleman Corners (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Dorothy West (about 400 feet away); Carrie Camillo Tankard and George Van Buren Tankard Jr. (about 400 feet away); The Powell House (about 600 feet away); The Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting Association Tabernacle (approx. half a mile away); Wesleyan Grove (approx. half a mile away); The Bishop Gilbert Haven Cottage (approx. half a mile away); Flying Horses Carousel (approx. half a mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Oak Bluffs.
Photographed by J. Makali Bruton, June 21, 2021
2. Shearer Cottage and Marker
Photographed by J. Makali Bruton, June 21, 2021
3. Shearer Cottage
Credits. This page was last revised on February 10, 2023. It was originally submitted on July 23, 2021, by J. Makali Bruton of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 506 times since then and 40 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on July 23, 2021, by J. Makali Bruton of Washington, District of Columbia.
