(Pride Unity Leadership Sisterhood Esteem)

of Princeton High School

presents

The History of the African American Community in Princeton, New Jersey

FRATERNAL ORGANIZATIONS

1 The Masonic Temple, located on the corner of John and Maclean Streets, was built by the Elks Club in 1913 and later taken over by the Masons. All black Masonic Temples are descendents of the Prince Hall Organizations, which began in Boston. Many meetings, social affairs, dances and receptions were, and are still, held in this building.

2 The Charles Robinson American Legion Post No. 218 is located on Lytle St. This American Legion was named after a World War I soldier, Charles Robinson, who was the first Princetonian to lose his life in the armed services. Before women served in the armed services, they were not able to join the Legion, but instead formed auxiliary clubs.

3 The American Legion Drum and Bugle Corp, Charles William Robinson Post 218 in front of the Witherspoon School for Colored Children - circa late 1920's - early 1930's Back Row (behind flag): Jim Raikes, Allen Washington, not known, Walt Toaston (Drum Major), not known, John Woolridge, ___ Craig Second Row (at flag): Johnny Jones, Fred LeCompt, Wallace Holland, Hally Firman, Latson Boone, Louis Merrick, Garnell Herron Front Row Drummers: Mose Jordan, Bosley Twins, not known

4 The Elks Lodge is located on Birch Avenue, having been moved from Maclean Street in 1937. Membership in fraternal organizations such as the Elks was common among the African American residents who were barred from joining all white groups and denied service in many restaurants and bars in Princeton.

5 The former Charcoal Inn located on John Street across from the Masonic Temple, was owned by William Teague and William Green. It was known as the meeting place of the men who called themselves the "NEMDEROLOC" ("colored men" spelled backwards). It was primarily a social club where new members joined by invitation only.

6 The Colored YMCA was located on the corner of Witherspoon and Green Streets. The members of the 'Y' met in homes and at the Douglas Hall (formerly the Witherspoon School for Colored Children on Witherspoon and Maclean Streets) before this building was built. In 1917, the building opened to serve as a facility for recreational and educational activities. In addition to the churches, the "Y" was the focal point for the Black Community. In 1938-39, the original building was replaced with the present building that now houses the Princeton Arts Council.

7 YMCA Clubs 1935-1936

Introduction | Landmarks | Churches | Education | Businesses | Fraternal Organizations | Noted People | Credits