Peekskill's African American History

African-American life through the centuries in this Hudson Valley town, from Peekskill’s official historian—includes maps and photos.
 
The first African Americans of Peekskill had no choice in making the Hudson Valley their home. What they did choose was what kind of home to make of it. Those choices would shape both their community and the course of American history.
 
Meet the African American sharpshooter who helped swing the balance of the American Revolution, revisit a stop on the Underground Railroad, and catch a glimpse of Paul Robeson through the tumult of the 1949 concert riots. Then follow local historian John J. Curran beyond the headlines and behind the scenes as he seeks out the people whose quiet, consistent contributions were no less dynamic in bringing about social change.