Marine Biological Laboratory Added as First Off-Island Stop on Martha’s Vineyard African American Heritage Trail

The Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) in Woods Hole is now an official stop on the Martha’s Vineyard African American Heritage Trail, marking the first site located off the island. The designation is, in the words of trail co-founder and historian Elaine Weintraub, “an amazing dream come true,” and represents an historic expansion of the trail’s reach and recognition.

The Martha’s Vineyard African American Heritage Trail highlights locations of historical significance to the African American community, including Inkwell Beach, Grace Church, and the Shearer Cottage. Visitors can choose from tour options of different lengths and can also view a virtual tour featuring historic and contemporary Black-owned businesses on the island.

The plaque dedicated to James Townsel. Credit: Samantha Cummis

The new stop at the MBL honors James G. Townsel, a pioneering Black neuroscientist and educator who was involved with the MBL for more than 50 years. The design and wording of the plaque recognizing Townsel were created by students and educators of the STEP Forward Program at the Lawrence Junior High School, Falmouth Public Schools, in Falmouth, Massachusetts.

Townsel’s career centered on groundbreaking research in neuroscience, strong advocacy for fairness, and efforts to reduce racial disparities in health care. Early in his career, he recognized the inequities that existed and dedicated himself to addressing them. He promoted diversity and inclusion within the scientific community and mentored many young scientists from underrepresented groups. He also helped create a network of diverse scientific mentors who guided aspiring scientists.

David Mark Welch and Matthew Person cut the ribbon at the ceremony. Credit: Samantha Cummis

In the 1990s, Townsel and Joe Martinez, Jr., co-founded the MBL Summer Program in Neuroscience, Excellence and Success (SPINES). The program provides training, mentorship, and networking opportunities for underrepresented students in neuroscience and supports their careers. SPINES has become a model for fostering diversity in STEM and has had a lasting impact.

Townsel left behind a more inclusive scientific community where individuals from all backgrounds have opportunities to contribute. His work continues to inspire efforts focused on equity and justice in science and healthcare.

Falmouth High School Students cut the ribbon at the ceremony. — Falmouth High School students cut the ribbon at the ceremony. Credit: Samantha Cummis

The project to extend the African American Heritage Trail to Woods Hole was created through a partnership between Falmouth Lawrence School's 2024 8th-grade students and teachers Kristina Woods and Stacy Willman, the Martha’s Vineyard African American Heritage Trail, and the Marine Biological Laboratory.