Historical Quilt Depicts Growth Of Spinney Hill Community

GREAT NECK, NY — Town officials recently attended the first showing of the Spinney Hill Historic Quilt, a project designed to share the rich history of the area's historically black community.

Judi Bosworth, the North Hempstead town supervisor, attended the Feb. 2 showing at the Manhasset/Great Neck Economic Opportunity Council. She was joined by Clerk Wayne Wink and council members Veronica Lurvey and Mariann Dalimonte.

The quilt depicts the growth of the Spinney Hill community in Great Neck through images painted by Great Neck artist Raisy Derzie.

Spinney Hill was named after affluent export merchant Joseph Spinney. The enclave borders the unincorporated sections of Great Neck and Manhasset.

The project cost $2,000 and was funded through a $50,000 grant awarded by the National Park Service. The grant was awarded so the town could cultivate and preserve its residents' rich history with the Civil Rights Movement.

Neighbors can see the quilt at the Manhasset/Great Neck Economic Opportunity Council. It will also be displayed at the Great Neck Library and Town Hall in Manhasset in the coming months.

Bosworth in November said the quilt was a "moving tribute" to the many residents who were key participants in the Civil Rights Movement and development of the Spinney Hill community.

"What a unique way to teach people the history of their community, while also giving us a beautiful piece of artwork to enjoy," Bosworth said in a statement.