In keeping with the ministry objective to "hallow the past, consecrate the present, have faith in the future and above all protect the heritage," over 100 people gathered on June 30 at the Lakeville African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church to rededicate themselves to preserving the ancient burial ground of "America's first freedom fighters." Although the heritage of the alliance between Afro-Americans and various Indian tribes has been mostly ignored in American history classes, the literal remains of the bonds between the two people are well documented in our own backyard on Valley Road, better known now as Community Drive.

Sitting peacefully on one of the busiest arteries in the area, appearing quaint in contrast to the modern day office buildings and sprawling hospital complex nearby, the Lakeville A.M.E. Zion Church was designated a National Historic Landmark in the 1970s because of its important and colorful history in a community then called Success. It was the heart and soul of a thriving and stable farming community that was considered a "maroon colony" composed of freed slaves, African Americans and Matinecock Indians. The church was actually erected in 1833 after the abolition of slavery in New York State in 1827 when former slave families bought land there. Later in 1867, a school, the first free school for children of color in Nassau County, was built there. The Great Neck Board of Education appropriated $300 for its construction and the parents provided the labor.

But time and the elements have weathered and worn a structure that was actually built on rocks as a foundation. And those rocks have shifted as they have settled making the building unstable. It has been held together by paint and prayer and while the prayers continue, many people who are joined together by a fierce love for the remarkable history of the place, acknowledge that the prayers must be accompanied by willing, working hands and loyal hearts if the heritage is to be protected.

So the ceremony on that Sunday afternoon br ought together the congregation led by the Reverend Archie M. Cherry, political leaders, historians and community activists in a program that celebrated with music, stirring speeches and reflective thoughts on the history of the place.

Project coordinator, Rosa Chapman Ducree, a retired New York City school teacher, was visiting a friend at North Shore Hospital when she spotted the unpretentious church across the street and was intrigued enough to visit and begin to explore the treasure trove of the history of the area. She prefers to call herself a "catalyst" who shines the spotlight on the people who have made history there and to the "friends" who have joined in to save the building and the grounds.

The "friends" are many. Some of them spoke that day. Congressman Gary Ackerman noted how the teaching of history has in many ways by-passed a rich past. He said, "You have to forgive us, teach us, and lead us to a better understanding." And he pledged his continued help. Town Supervisor May Newburger, Town Councilman Fred Pollack, Assemblyman Thomas DiNapoli, Town Clerk Michele Schimel, Deputy Town Clerk James Burton, and Councilman Thomas Dwyer are all lending the weight of their offices to various aspects of the project. Kaye McKiernan, president of North Shore Habitat for Humanity has already led 100 volunteers in helping to clear the burial grounds of weeds and brambles and has pledged the people power to do the actual labor for restoration of the church.

The day's ceremony was enlivened by the music of the Drum Circle Singers, Kiesha St. Joan, recording artist J.W. Lance and Bill Godwin of the Ink Spots.

Historian William Loren Katz, author of numerous books, among them Black Indians: A Hidden Heritage, said it well, "Together two peoples of color became the first freedom-fighters of the Americas. Their courageous contribution to our legacy of resistance to tyranny deserves greater recognition." In keeping with that recognition, flags were placed on the graves of veterans of the Civil War and both World Wars this past Memorial Day at the church.

Donations for the restoration have begun to come in. Ron Keats from the Nationwide Insurance headquarters has donated $5000 to a special account that is being administered by Habitat for Humanity. Checks may be made out to Habitat for Humanity for the Lakeville A.M.E. Zion Church and sent to Habitat for Humanity, 1421 Northern Blvd., Manhasset, New York, 11030.