Massachusetts governor joins reopening of historic Cottagers’ Corner

The Cottagers, Incorporated reopened its restored headquarters in Oak Bluffs on Wednesday, with Gov. Maura Healey joining the ribbon-cutting as the group marked its 70th year. The project updates a 154-year-old landmark while preserving a major community space on Martha’s Vineyard.

Why it matters: - The reopening preserves one of Oak Bluffs’ best-known community landmarks while making the building more accessible for public use. - The restoration extends a 70-year institutional legacy tied to service, cultural pride and community programming on Martha’s Vineyard. - The upgraded headquarters is positioned to support more educational events, youth activities, fundraisers and gatherings.

What happened: - The Cottagers, Incorporated held a grand reopening of Cottagers’ Corner on Wednesday, June 24, in Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts. - Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey attended the celebration, delivered remarks and joined the ceremonial ribbon-cutting. - The event marked the completion of a major restoration project and the reopening of the building to the public. - The celebration brought together organization members, local and state elected officials, community leaders, donors, restoration supporters and nonprofit partners.

The details: - Cottagers’ Corner is a 154-year-old building that served earlier as Town Hall, a fire station and a local jail. - The Cottagers have used the building as a center for educational programs, cultural events, youth activities, fundraisers and community gatherings. - The restoration preserved the building’s historic character while adding an elevator, accessible restrooms, an upgraded kitchen, structural repairs and modernized systems. - The upgrades are designed to support expanded programming and broader public use. - The restoration drew support from donors, grant makers, corporate sponsors and community partners. - The reopening is part of the organization’s year-long “70 Years of Service & Giving” celebration. - The Cottagers were founded in 1956 by Thelma Garland Smith and a small group of African American women homeowners. - The organization says its mission is to support charitable, educational and community service projects that improve life on the Island and promote cultural pride. - The Cottagers say their philanthropy has helped sustain charities and programs that save lives, restore dignity and open doors to new horizons. - More information is available on the organization’s website. - The Cottagers also shared updates on Instagram and Facebook.

Between the lines: - The reopening blends preservation with access, signaling an effort to keep a historic site relevant for current community needs. - Healey’s presence gives the event added political visibility and underscores the building’s symbolic importance beyond the local level. - The project reflects a broader pattern common in heritage nonprofits: using capital upgrades to protect history while expanding year-round use.

What's next: - Cottagers’ Corner will continue operating as a venue for community, culture, service and learning. - The Cottagers will carry the 70th-anniversary celebration forward as the organization enters a new chapter with the restored headquarters. - The renovated building is expected to serve future generations as a gathering place and program hub.