15+ New Jersey Landmarks that Celebrate Black History

New Jersey is home to a rich history of African American culture, activism, and achievement. NJIB’s guide to Black History landmarks and museums showcases some of the most important sites in the state that honor this legacy. From historic churches and Underground Railroad stops to museums that celebrate the lives of influential figures, this guide offers a chance to explore the places where history was made and learn about the remarkable contributions of the Black community in New Jersey.

Museums

Stoutsburg Sourland African-American Museum
The Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum (SSAAM) was founded in 2016 by Beverly Mills and Elaine Buck, following years of research into African American history. Located in Skillman, New Jersey, at the Mt. Zion AME Church and The Reasoner/True House, two historically African American-owned properties, SSAAM offers exhibits, lectures, and cultural programming year-round. Its mission is to highlight untold stories of American history. The Mt. Zion AME Church was added to the New Jersey State Register of Historic Places in 2018 and the National Register in 2021. In 2022, SSAAM partnered with the Sourland Conservancy to preserve The Reasoner/True House as part of its museum complex.
189 Hollow Rd., Skillman, NJ

The Harriet Tubman Museum of New Jersey
The Harriet Tubman Museum in Cape May, New Jersey, celebrates the life and legacy of one of America’s greatest freedom fighters. Cape May played an important role in the Underground Railroad, and Tubman herself spent time there in the 1850s, working and helping freedom seekers escape slavery. The museum, located in a historic 19th-century home, shares powerful stories about Tubman’s bravery and the fight for freedom. Through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays, visitors can learn about her impact and Cape May’s role in Black history.
632 Lafayette St., Cape May, NJ

The Paul Robeson House
The Paul Robeson House in Princeton, New Jersey, is a historic landmark that celebrates the life and legacy of the renowned African American actor, singer, and civil rights activist. Robeson lived in the house for several years, and it was here that he continued his work advocating for racial equality and social justice. Today, the house stands as a museum and cultural center, offering exhibits that highlight his achievements in the arts and his tireless efforts to fight for human rights both in the U.S. and abroad.
110 Witherspoon St., Princeton, NJ

Hinchliffe Stadium and the Charles J. Muth Museum
Hinchliffe Stadium, once a major hub for Negro League baseball during the 1930s and ‘40s, was a place where fans flocked to see some of the greatest players of the era, like Josh Gibson, Cool Papa Bell, Monte Irvin, and Larry Doby. Built during the Great Depression and located in the segregated Jim Crow South, it was one of the few places where African American athletes could showcase their talent. The stadium served as home to teams like the New York Black Yankees, New York Cubans, and Newark Eagles, with over 20 Hall of Famers playing on its field. In 2013, it was designated a National Historic Landmark, preserving its legacy as one of the last remaining Negro League ballparks in the country. The Charles J. Muth Museum is a treasure trove of baseball’s past found on the hallowed grounds of historic Hinchliffe Stadium. The newest cultural center focusing on baseball history, the museum features exhibits, artificats, and a mini theater.
186 Maple St Paterson, NJ

Black Inventors Hall of Fame Museum
The Black Inventors Hall of Fame (BIHOF) celebrates the contributions of African American inventors, artists, and innovators throughout history. Their work is often overlooked, and BIHOF aims to honor these achievements through exhibits, educational programs, and community outreach. The organization’s “Three Eras of African American Invention” traveling exhibit has toured various locations, and it is currently developing an educational kiosk to engage youth in learning about invention processes.
333 Speedwell Ave, Morristown, NJ

The African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey (AAHMSNJ)
The African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey, located in Atlantic City and Newtonville, celebrates African American culture and history through a diverse collection of artwork, artifacts, and exhibits. Founded by Ralph E. Hunter Sr., the museum aims to spark conversations about the African American experience and highlight the accomplishments of Black individuals. Its exhibits feature a range of topics, from cultural treasures to historical pieces, offering visitors an insightful look into African American heritage. The museum is free to visit, and appreciates donations.
2200 Fairmount Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ

T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center
The T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center, located in Red Bank, NJ, is dedicated to preserving the legacy of T. Thomas Fortune, a pioneering journalist and social justice advocate. The center, which honors his contributions to the African American community, hosts exhibits, events, and educational programming. It serves as a hub for cultural exploration, featuring a range of activities and discussions surrounding African American heritage and the history of the Black press.
94 Drs. James Parker Blvd, Red Bank, NJ

Afro-American Historical Society Museum
The Afro-American Historical Society Museum in Jersey City, established in 1984, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and cultural heritage of African Americans. Located on the second floor of the Greenville Public Library, the museum offers exhibitions, educational programs, and resources that highlight the significant contributions of African Americans. The museum was founded by community leaders, including Captain Thomas Taylor and Theodore Brunson, and is an important cultural resource for the local community.
1841 Kennedy Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ

The African Art Museum of the S.M.A. Fathers
The museum is one of the few in the United States dedicated solely to African arts. It offers rotating exhibitions showcasing a captivating collection of sub-Saharan sculptures, paintings, textiles, costumes, and decorative arts. Visitors can also explore the cultural richness of African religion, folklore, and traditions through its diverse displays. The museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into the arts and heritage of the African continent.
23 Bliss Ave, Tenafly, NJ

Historical Sites

Goodwin Sisters House
The house was once home to Sarah and Mary Goodwin, two abolitionist women who were known for their courageous efforts in helping enslaved individuals escape to freedom. As active participants in the Underground Railroad, the Goodwin sisters provided shelter and support to fugitives in their home. n 2008, the Goodwin Sisters House was designated as the first site in New Jersey accepted into the National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program.
47 Market St., Salem, NJ

Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church
Founded in the early 19th century, it was one of the first AME churches in the state, providing a place of worship, community, and activism for African Americans. The church played a key role in the Underground Railroad, offering shelter and support to freedom seekers escaping slavery. Over the years, Bethel AME has remained a strong symbol of resilience, continuing to uplift and empower the Black community through faith, education, and social justice efforts. The location is one of four sites in New Jersey officially registered as an Underground Railroad Historical Sites with the National Park Service.
1092 Sheppards Mill Rd., Greenwich, NJ

Peter Mott House
The Peter Mott House stands as a powerful tribute to the Underground Railroad, offering visitors a glimpse into the courageous journey of those who sought freedom in the 19th century. Once a vital station along this secretive network, the house has been carefully restored and transformed into a museum, preserving its rich history. The Lawnside Historical Society was established to safeguard the legacy of Peter and Elizabeth Mott, ensuring that their home—and its role in the fight for freedom—remains a lasting symbol of resilience and hope. The homestead is one of four sites in New Jersey officially registered as an Underground Railroad Historical Sites with the National Park Service.
26 Kings Ct., Lawnside, NJ

Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church
The Mount Zion AME Church, built in 1834 and continues to be in use, still has a trap door where runaway slaves were hidden, according to the National Park Service. Records show that at least two members of the church were involved in the Underground Railroad. The church’s cemetery, with tombstones dating back to 1861, is the final resting place of some of those freedom seekers and African American Civil War veterans, as noted by the New Jersey Historic Trust. It is one of four sites in New Jersey officially registered as an Underground Railroad Historical Sites with the National Park Service.
172 Garwin Rd., Swedesboro, NJ

Shady Rest Country Club
Established in 1921, it was one of the first, if not the first, African-American country clubs in the United States. The club’s most notable moment came in the 1930s when it became a popular meeting place for Black golfers, including the legendary golfer Bill Spiller, who fought for the integration of professional golf and became the first African American to compete in the U.S. Open. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 7, 2022, for its significance in entertainment, ethnic heritage, recreation, and social history from 1921 to 1964. It continues to an active, public golf course.
820 Jerusalem Rd, Scotch Plains, NJ

Oval Park
Oval Park in East Orange may not be widely known, but it holds an important place in New Jersey’s African American history. It was once home to several Negro League baseball teams, including the New York Cubans, the country’s first, who won the 1943 Negro Leagues World Series. From 1940 to 1948, teams from the Negro National League played at the Orange Oval, followed by teams from the Negro American League for one season from 1949 to 1950. This rich history is documented in The Negro Leagues in New Jersey by Alfred M. Martin and Alfred T. Martin, highlighting the park’s significance in Black sports history.
10 Eaton Pl., East Orange, NJ

Dr. James Still Historic Site
The Dr. James Still Historic Site preserves the legacy of Dr. James Still, a self-taught African American physician known as the “Black Doctor of the Pines.” Born in 1812 to formerly enslaved parents, Dr. Still overcame immense obstacles to establish a successful medical practice, using herbal remedies and natural medicine to treat patients of all backgrounds. The site, which includes a learning center and the remains of his original office, offers visitors insight into his remarkable life, contributions to medicine, and impact on the local community. The Visitor Center is open every 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month from 11:30 am to 4:00pm. There is also a nature trail located on the property that is open daily from dawn to dusk.
210 Medford-Mt. Holly Rd., Medford, NJ

Macedonia African Methodist Episcopal
Macedonia African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, founded in 1832, is the oldest African American church in Camden, New Jersey. Deeply rooted in history, it served as a vital stop on the Underground Railroad, with its minister, Thomas Clement Oliver, recognized as New Jersey’s leading stationmaster. Located in the historic Fettersville neighborhood, the church became both a spiritual and civic hub for the African American community. For over 185 years, Macedonia AME has remained a symbol of faith, resilience, and activism, continuing its legacy of service and advocacy.
261 Spruce St, Camden, NJ

Croft Farms
Croft Farm in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, holds a significant place in Black history as a documented stop on the Underground Railroad. Originally a working mill and farm dating back to the 18th century, the property became a refuge for freedom seekers escaping slavery in the South. The Quaker owners of Croft Farm provided shelter and assistance to those traveling north, reinforcing the area’s deep ties to abolitionist efforts. Today Croft Farm is a historical property owned and operated by Cherry Hill Township. Recreational events and programs are held year-round on the property.
100 Bortons Mill Rd., Cherry Hill, NJ