ICYMI - Friends of Abraham Staats House Stone Project at the Abraham Staats House

To close out Black History Month, Commissioner Director Shanel Y. Robinson and Commissioner Melonie Marano spoke at two “Witness Stones” events to honor and recognize Henry “Harry” Staats, who lived for 76 years as an enslaved African American in the Abraham Staats House in South Bound Brook, New Jersey, where he died on March 5, 1847.

The first event was at the Robert Morris School, where 8th graders presented their research into the lives of Henry Staats and other enslaved people in Central New Jersey. The second event was the formal installation of a stone marker at the Abraham Staats House, just outside the kitchen where enslaved people lived and worked. 

Also in attendance were Somerset County Surrogate Tina Jalloh; South Bound Brook Mayor Chris Shoffner, Council President Beth Konkle, Councilmembers Jimmy Shah and Shawn Wooden; Assemblyman Joe Danielsen; Dennis Culliton of the Witness Stones Project; leaders of the Friends of Abraham Staats House; and members of the public.

Robert Morris School 8th grade students participated and presented to the Robert Morris School Middle School Staff, Mr. Cullinane, Ms. Rocco, and Mr. DeGennaro, for their instruction and guidance in making this project a meaningful learning experience for students. 

The Friends of Abraham Staats House is grateful for the guidance of the Witness Stones Project, Inc. and the New Jersey Historical Commission grant funding that made this project and collaboration possible.  Learn more about their projects:Preserving the Abraham Staats House - The Abraham Staats House South Bound Brook, NJ

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