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| Memorial
Square Plaque Cedar and Kempton Streets |
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This plaque was erected in 1980, by the 20th Century Club, Inc. It is in memory of the many Black Men and Women who contributed to the civic, cultural and social life of the community. For many years, this area was the Mecca of the African-American community. |
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| James
and Anna Reed Homestead 172 Arnold Street |
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Built in 1866, one of two octagon houses in the city, the Reed family occupied this home for 101 years. On March 17, 1991, they celebrated their 100th anniversary with an open house. Mr. Reed is the well-known African-American photographer of this city (1880-1914). His wife, Anna Jourdain Reed, studied at the Swain School of Design. She had colored and hand tinted her husband’s portraits and landscapes to give the impression of colored pictures. She also worked on Tiffany style lampshades for the Pairpoint Company of New Bedford. This property was sold by the family in 1991 and is now a private residence. |
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| Union
Baptist Church Court and Cedar Streets |
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Built in 1897, this church is the result of the merging of Salem and Second Baptist Churches. Many of the furnishings in this church date back to the 1850’s, as they are furnishings from both churches. Reverend E. McDonald was the first pastor. |
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| Martha
and Henry Onley Homestead 147 Smith Street, Corner Cedar Street |
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Built in 1850 by the Onleys, this home was the focal point of African-American history and literature. The Martha Briggs Literary Society was organized here. The Onleys were a very religious family and very involved in the church. They helped organize the Salem Baptist Church. After Mr. Onley died in the late 1880’s, Mrs. Onley ran the household from the rents of the property she owned. This house was believed to be used during the "underground railroad". For forty years, this house was used by her grandson Charles Dudley Onley as a funeral home. |
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| Reverend
William Jackson Homestead Smith and Chancery Streets |
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This is the home of Reverend William Jackson, pastor of the Second and founder of the Salem Baptist church. While pastor at the Salem Baptist Church, Reverend Jackson became chaplain of the 54th Massachusetts Colored Infantry in 1863. He later became Chaplain of the 55th and was believed to be the first African-American commissioned as an Officer in the Army. Reverend Jackson was a well-known agent for the "underground railroad" who harbored fugitive slaves in his home. This home is privately owned. | ||
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