Press Release: Mayor Buckley on the Passing of Vincent Leggett

PRESS RELEASE

Mayor Gavin Buckley

Public Information Office

160 Duke of Gloucester Street

Annapolis, Maryland 21401

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE :

Media Contact: Mitchelle Stephenson, 410-972-7724 or [email protected]

Mayor Buckley on the Passing of Vincent Leggett

"Captain Leggett" Honored the History of Chesapeake Bay's
Black Watermen

ANNAPOLIS, MD (November 24, 2024) - Mayor Gavin Buckley was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Vincent Leggett, Executive Director of Blacks of the Chesapeake . Leggett passed on November 24, 2025.

"Vince was a tireless advocate for preserving the legacy of Black watermen. His efforts to honor their history and share their stories have left an indelible mark on the Annapolis community and beyond," Buckley said. "Vince's work went beyond retelling the stories of the Black watermen who worked the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. He had a passion to preserve stories that otherwise might have been lost to time. His deep connection to the water and the people whose lives were intertwined with it made him a respected figure in the Annapolis community. He will be greatly missed."

Leggett dedicated his life to preserving the rich heritage of Black watermen and ensuring their contributions to the Chesapeake Bay and maritime culture would not be forgotten. As Executive Director of Blacks of the Chesapeake, Leggett worked to promote awareness of the Black community's vital role in the region's seafood industry, ensuring their stories and achievements were recognized and respected.

Under Leggett's guidance, Blacks of the Chesapeake grew into an influential organization, engaging with schools, museums, and community groups to educate and advocate for the preservation of the history of Black watermen and their families. He raised awareness of the struggles and resilience of these men and women, shining a light on their enduring legacy in the face of adversity.

Leggett played a crucial role in the City of Annapolis' 2022 acquisition of Elktonia Beach off Bembe Beach Road, once a part of the Carr's and Sparrow's Beach properties that catered to African American families during the time of Jim Crow. The property is now a public park managed by the City of Annapolis Department of Recreation and Parks and includes the former home of Dr. Parlett Moore.

Mayor Buckley offers his heartfelt condolences to Leggett's family, friends, and all those who were impacted by his work.

"The City of Annapolis will continue to honor Vincent's legacy by ensuring the history of Black watermen remains a cornerstone of our community's heritage and a part of the Elktonia-Carr's Heritage Park mission," Buckley said.

Photo: Mayor Buckley with Vince Leggett at a community meeting regarding plans for Ekltonia-Carr's Beach. Photo credit: Julien Jacques/City of Annapolis.

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