Story of the Pine Street African Burial Ground

The Pine Street African Burial Ground, located at 157 Pine Street in Kingston, New York, was in use from the early 1600s until approximately 1888. In 1750, the site was officially designated as a burial ground for “slaves / coloreds.”

Over the years, the burial ground was sold to a lumber yard and later passed through the hands of numerous private owners. In 2008, the property, including the house, was foreclosed upon and scheduled for auction by the Ulster County Supreme Court.

With the support of the Kingston Land Trust , Harambee Kingston NY, Inc., and community members organized a campaign to “Save the Burial Ground” and protect this sacred site from further sale and potential loss.

The campaign was successful. Through the efforts of Harambee Kingston NY, Inc. and its community partners, ownership and stewardship of the Pine Street African Burial Ground were secured. Harambee Kingston has been the steward of the site since 2019, working to preserve, honor, and share its history with the community and future generations.

Historic Sacred Landmark

The Pine Street African Burial Ground was designated as a New York State Historic Landmark in 2025, a historic milestone achieved by Harambee Kingston after years of preservation efforts by community members, local historians, archaeologists, and other advocates.

This designation reflects the collective commitment to preserving the site and recognizing its historical and cultural significance for Kingston, New York, and future generations.

Archeology Discoveries

The Pine Street African Burial Ground partnered with the SUNY New Paltz Department of Anthropology to conduct ground-penetrating radar surveys, followed by four years of archaeological excavations and field studies. Excavations of seven plots revealed the remains of 30 individuals, from young children to adults, along with headstones, footstones, and other artifacts that provide valuable insight into the lives and history of those buried at the sacred site.

Cultural Heritage

Cultural pride and preservation are important to many ethnic communities in Kingston, NY. Harambee Kingston is a nonprofit organization committed to celebrating, educating, and preserving African American history and culture. The Pine Street African Burial Ground and Museum provide an opportunity for community members and visitors to learn about, experience, and honor the Ancestors who helped build Kingston and those whose contributions continue to enrich the city’s rich diverse cultural heritage.

The Pine Street African Burial Ground Visitors

Visitors are welcome to walk the sacred Burial and the spend time in reflection and connecting in open air space.  The new Memorial Monument if is moving and inspirational.  There are 7 burial plots that have been excavated and closed in public ceremonies of the past 4 years.

The burial plots are planted with beautiful flowers planted and maintained by the Harambee community members. The seasonal Harambee Cultural Heritage Garden is open to the public and to harvest the seasonal vegetable.  All ages are welcome to explore and learn.

Museum Visit



The Pine Street African Burial Ground Museum offers:

• Documented history of the Pine Street African Burial Ground
• Excavated artifacts from each burial site
• Historic Maps
• Photographs
• Headstones and Footstones
• News Articles
• Publications
• Timeline of the Pine Street African Burial Ground
• Visit the sacred Pine Street African Burial Ground and Memorial Monument to learn, reflect, and honor the Ancestors laid to rest.
  

VISITING

The Pine Street African Burial and Museum is open to the public for research, information and tours. Donation of $100.00 is required.

Self-Guided Visit

Tuesdays and Thursdays - 11am - 3pm

Guided Educational Group Tours

Schedule your group tour.Fill in the Form below to get started planning your Guided Group Tour.

Location

157 Pine Street . Kingston, NY

Upcoming Events

Join Us on Saturday , October 24, 2026 to celebrate the recent Historic Landmark Designation.