Meet Underground Railroad Agent Peter Mott

Thirty-one years ago, a small group of Lawnsiders decided to create a historical society to preserve and protect the heritage of the only African American incorporated town north of the Mason-Dixon line.

Join the Reverend Peter Mott (portrayed by Keith Henley) on the lawn of his house at 26 Kings Court at noon, Saturday, Oct. 16 as the Society honors its founders. Pastor Terrell Person, Jacob's Chapel A.M.E. Church and a member of the Still Family, will bless the National Register sign and historic marker installed last fall.

The afternoon features Sandra Turner-Barnes reading her poem "Lawnside," saxophonist Nasir Dickerson's quartet, Civil War Reenactor Joe Becton and several children who will share what they have learned about Lawnside's history.

The idea for the Society sprang from former high school classmates Harold Conaway, Chrissandra Butler and Kizawanda Olusola after a Black History Program in February 1990 and an urgent plan to save the Peter Mott House from being demolished. Clarence H. Still, Jr., became the first president with officers Arlene Artis and Linese Marvin.

The Society received tremendous support from former Senator Wayne R. Bryant, the New Jersey Historic Trust, the New Jersey Historical Commission, guidance from architect Margaret Westfield and funding from the Camden County Cultural and Heritage Commission. Key was Gail Greenberg's successful Mott House nomination to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994.

Capacity is limited and masks are required. Register to attend at http://tinyurl.com/LawnsideHis...