Obituary – Cause of Death : “Celedonia Jones, Renowned NY Historian, Dies at 93: Unveiling Untold Stories of Seneca Village”

Celedonia Jones, a self-educated historian from New York, has sadly passed away at the age of 93. Known for his extensive knowledge and deep dives into the history of Seneca Village, a predominantly Black settlement in what is now Central Park, Jones made significant contributions to preserving and sharing the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Born in New York City in 1930, Jones grew up in a modest household. Despite facing numerous challenges, including financial constraints and limited educational opportunities, he developed an insatiable curiosity for history from an early age. Unable to pursue formal education, Jones took it upon himself to become a self-taught historian, dedicating countless hours to studying books, archives, and any other resources he could access.

Jones’ passion for history led him to delve into the lesser-known aspects of New York’s past. His most notable work centered around Seneca Village, a vibrant community that thrived in the mid-19th century before being razed to make way for the construction of Central Park. Recognizing the significance of this forgotten chapter, Jones embarked on a mission to uncover the stories and experiences of the village’s residents, many of whom were African American.

His research on Seneca Village shed light on the community’s tight-knit nature, its economic and social structures, and the challenges faced by its residents. By unearthing these narratives, Jones aimed to challenge prevailing narratives that marginalized the contributions of Black communities throughout history. His work was instrumental in highlighting the importance of Seneca Village and its lasting impact on the development of New York City.

In 1997, Jones was appointed as the Manhattan borough historian, a position he held with great pride until his retirement in 2005. During his tenure, he actively promoted the preservation and celebration of the city’s cultural heritage. Jones organized numerous exhibitions, lectures, and walking tours, where he shared his wealth of knowledge with locals and visitors alike. His dedication to educating others about New York’s history was unwavering, and he became a beloved figure within the community.

Throughout his career, Jones received numerous accolades for his contributions to historical preservation. He was recognized for his meticulous research, his ability to connect with diverse audiences, and his commitment to amplifying marginalized voices. His work not only enriched our understanding of New York’s past, but it also served as a reminder of the importance of preserving and valuing the stories of underrepresented communities.

While the cause of Jones’ death remains unknown at this time, his legacy will undoubtedly live on. His passion for history and his tireless efforts to uncover hidden narratives have left an indelible mark on New York City’s cultural landscape. Jones’ work serves as an inspiration for future generations of historians and storytellers, reminding us of the power of knowledge and the importance of preserving our collective history.

In honoring the memory of Celedonia Jones, we must continue his mission of unearthing and amplifying the stories of marginalized communities. By embracing their histories, we can foster a more inclusive and equitable society, one that recognizes the contributions of all its members. Celedonia Jones may no longer be with us, but his legacy will continue to shape our understanding of the past and inspire future generations to celebrate the diversity of our shared human experience..

Celedonia Jones, Self-Educated New York Historian, Dies at 93: He served as Manhattan borough historian from 1997 to 2005. He also dug deeply into the history of Seneca Village, a mostly Black settlement in what became Central Park. | https://t.co/zw1QysPv9j

— Culture Type (@CultureType) December 22, 2023

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@CultureType said Celedonia Jones, Self-Educated New York Historian, Dies at 93: He served as Manhattan borough historian from 1997 to 2005. He also dug deeply into the history of Seneca Village, a mostly Black settlement in what became Central Park.