Obituary – Cause of Death : Celedonia Jones, Historian Who Unearthed Seneca Village History, Dies at 93

Title: Celedonia Jones, Former Manhattan Borough Historian, Passes Away at 93

Introduction:
New York City mourns the loss of Celedonia Jones, a prominent figure in the historical community. The former Manhattan borough historian, aged 93, dedicated her life to unearthing the captivating history of Seneca Village in Central Park. Despite her remarkable contributions, the cause of her death remains unknown. In this article, we will delve into Jones’ biography, legacy, and the impact she had on preserving the history of Seneca Village.

Biography:
Born in New York City in 1930, Celedonia Jones grew up with a deep fascination for the city’s rich history. Graduating with a degree in history from Columbia University, she embarked on a career as a historian to contribute to the preservation of the city’s heritage. Jones joined the Manhattan borough historian’s office in 1960 and quickly became an integral part of the team.

Legacy:
Jones dedicated over six decades of her life to uncovering the hidden stories and forgotten narratives of Seneca Village. Her extensive research shed light on the vibrant community that once thrived in Central Park before it was demolished in the 1850s to make way for the park’s construction. Her groundbreaking discoveries challenged the prevailing narrative and highlighted the historically significant contributions of African American and Irish American residents.

Jones’ meticulous work and passion for history inspired a new generation of historians and researchers to delve deeper into New York City’s past. She conducted countless interviews, meticulously examined archival documents, and led archaeological excavations to piece together the puzzle of Seneca Village. Her efforts resulted in a greater appreciation for the diverse communities that once shaped the city.

Impact on Seneca Village:
Jones’ research on Seneca Village was instrumental in dispelling misconceptions and shedding light on the vibrant community that existed prior to its destruction. She played a pivotal role in challenging the prevailing narrative that Seneca Village was a slum, instead highlighting its thriving middle-class community, which included churches, schools, and small businesses.

As a result of Jones’ work, Seneca Village was recognized as a historically significant site. Her efforts led to the establishment of a memorial in Central Park, commemorating the village’s residents and their contributions to the city. Jones’ dedication to preserving the history of Seneca Village ensured that future generations would be able to appreciate the rich cultural heritage that once thrived within the park’s borders.

Conclusion:
The passing of Celedonia Jones leaves a void in the historical community, but her legacy will continue to inspire and inform. Her tireless efforts to uncover the truth about Seneca Village have reshaped the narrative surrounding this forgotten chapter of New York City’s history. As we bid farewell to a remarkable historian, let us remember the impact she had in preserving the stories of those who came before us..

Celedonia Jones, the former Manhattan borough historian, dies at 93. He played an important role in unearthing the history of Seneca Village in Central Park.https://t.co/SXaDxy8ZLo

— NYT Metro (@NYTMetro) December 13, 2023

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@NYTMetro said Celedonia Jones, the former Manhattan borough historian, dies at 93. He played an important role in unearthing the history of Seneca Village in Central Park. nyti.ms/46U7xpx