Oldest Black-owned funeral home inducted into NYS Historic Business Preservation Registry
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Garland Brothers Funeral Home in Albany was inducted into the New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry on Friday, New York State Senator Patricia Fahy announced. It is the oldest-owned and operated Black-owned funeral home in the northeastern United States.
The funeral home, which is located on Clinton Avenue, was founded by James C. Garland during the Great Depression in 1929. Since its establishment, the business has aimed to serve the African American and Black communities of Albany, a press release said.
“We’ve been serving the Albany community for 96 years and look forward to continuing our legacy of dedication to our neighbors in their time of need,” said Benjamin Garland, CEO and president of Garland Bros.
The Garland family prides itself on never turning anyone away, regardless of the financial constraints of a grieving family. The business also has a location in Syracuse.
“A family-owned business for almost a century, Garland Brothers Funeral Home has served the Albany community with distinction and helps many of our neighbors navigate some of the most difficult times in their lives,” Fahy said. “Our small businesses are the cornerstones of our communities, and after almost 100 years, Garland Brothers Funeral Home remains a pillar of Albany and our Capital Region community.”
The New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry is managed by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation. It serves to highlight businesses that have been operating for at least 50 years and have contributed to their community’s history.
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