The Harlem African Burial Ground Task Force is a group of concerned citizens who have united to help the Elmendorf Reformed Church (ERC) to “reclaim, preserve, protect and commemorate” its historically and culturally significant colonial African Burial Ground. In 1660, the First Church of Harlem, also known as the Dutch Reformed Church of Harlem, erected a church building at the corner of First Av
enue and 127th Street. A quarter acre of land was set aside, which became known as the Negro Burying Ground or African Burial Ground. After 350 years of service to New York, a milestone ERC shares with the Village of Harlem (both received charters in August 1660), Elmendorf Reformed Church, in a unique partnership with the Task Force, seeks to share this rich history. The Harlem African Burial Ground is located underneath the streets and Second Avenue bus depot at First Avenue and 126th Street in Manhattan. Task Force meetings are held at the Elmendorf Reformed Church on the third Thursday of every month at 4pm. All are welcome.