Story Of A Renowned Red Bank Family Will Be Told At Exhibit

RED BANK, N.J.—The Parker Legacy Room at the T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center, honoring Dr. James Parker and other family members, will open to the public on Saturday, May 28. The Parker Family Legacy Room will hold a permanent exhibit, featuring a family of medical doctors and educators.

This "extraordinary and beloved family left a cherished legacy," according to a tribute on the cultural center's website.

"One generation removed from slavery and the oldest of three brothers, James W. Parker Sr. (1888-1973) graduated from Howard University Medical School in 1915," information on the website continues. In 1955, Parker became the first Black physician on staff at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch. His two brothers became a dentist and a pharmacist, respectively.

The history of the family and their ancestors and their dedication to education will be reflected in the many photos and other artifacts to be displayed.

The opening will take place from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the center . A $15 donation is requested. The center is located at 94 Drs. Parker Blvd, Red Bank.

The exhibit is sponsored by Monmouth Medical Center/RWJ Barnabas Health.

T. Thomas Fortune was a stalwart for social justice. Born into slavery in 1856, he became one of the most influential American journalists and newspaper publishers of the 19th and 20th centuries, according to the center's website.

Fortune christened his home in Red Bank “Maple Hall,” where he and his family lived between 1901 and 1915. There he entertained such figures as Booker T. Washington and other prominent persons of the time.