Robeson Week of Remembrance

Celebrating Paul Robeson’s 123rd Birthday

Sunday, April 4th – 1PM to 3PM
Family Football Toss
Palmer Square

Tuesday, April 6th
Robeson Story Time: Grandpa Stops A War by Susan Robeson and Ballad of An American by Sharon Rudahl (downloadable study guide)

Princeton Public Library - Online

Thursday, April 8th
Robeson Legacy Interviews and Reflections

YouTube Premiere

Friday, April 9th – 12PM to 2PM
Memorial Wreath Ceremony and WJHS Walking Tour
Princeton Arts Council

THE ROBESON HOUSE

The “Paul Robeson House,” is a residential property located at 110 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, NJ, where Paul Robeson was born. It has been the focal point for advancement of the African American community in the Princeton area for over a century.

It was the residence for Reverend Drew Robeson and his family when he was appointed pastor of the Witherspoon Street Presbyterian Church in 1879. The property later transferred to private ownership and became the “first residence” for many migrant workers, domestics, and laborers that came to Princeton. Through the years, it has served as a gathering place and service center for neighborhood residents. Many of the new residents settled in the Witherspoon-Jackson community and became the driving force for social, educational, and civic advancement of the community.

COMMUNITY VOICES

Meet our team

Eleanor Horne

Board Member

“For me, it is not the house, but what it represents.”

The Robeson House, like the Witherspoon Jackson neighborhood it anchors, is rooted in history but not locked in the past. The house stands proud and represents a future in which social justice issues are debated, programs developed, and community resources rallied to breathe life into the philosophy and legacy of Paul Robeson, a brave American patriot who used his many talents to fight for the rights and respect of all people worldwide.

Dr. Joy Barnes-Johnson

Board Member

“The Paul Robeson House project builds on an important legacy of Mr. Robeson: full human dignity.”

As an idea, the house serves as a center within a historic district known to be a friendly neighborhood in its community. The complexity of Robeson’s work to address economic, aesthetic, and political freedom can be explored by all who will come.

Dave McAlpin

Board Member

“Let Robeson House of Princeton be a beacon of hope for all who are denied dignity and justice.”

Darshana Jadav

Board Member

“It’s very important to keep Paul Robeson’s accomplishments and influence alive for this and later generations. The Paul Robeson House of Princeton will advance this purpose — a sustained Paul Robeson legacy.”

Don’t go along to get along. Be willing to sacrifice to do what you know is right.

PAUL ROBESON