Reminiscences of Colored People of Princeton, N. J.: 1800-1900

This volume offers a vivid snapshot of Princeton’s African‑American community from the early 1800s through the turn of the century. Written by a local chronicler, it gathers fragments of lives that have largely been left out of mainstream histories. The author weaves together anecdotes, property records, and personal recollections to paint a picture of a resilient and industrious group. Readers get a sense of the everyday triumphs and challenges that shaped their world.

Among the stories are former Revolutionary soldiers who recalled the battles of Trenton and Princeton, successful caterers and barbers who served both townspeople and university faculty, and families who built homes, schools, and churches. Names like Oliver Cromwell, Anthony Simmons, and the Scudder family illustrate a network of entrepreneurs, physicians, and educators who contributed to Princeton’s civic life. The book also notes generous legacies to institutions such as the Presbyterian Church and the university. By preserving these details, the work invites listeners to rediscover a hidden chapter of local history.