On the evening of Friday, June 12, Two River Theater is the scene as The T. Thomas Fortune Project Committee presents another in a series of fundraiser events. Scheduled for the hours of 6 to 10 pm, the benefit will present a distinguished keynote speaker to be announced — and an opportunity for the greater Red Bank community to become involved with the effort to rescue and preserve one of the borough’s genuine historic treasures.
Located at 94 Drs. James Parker Boulevard, The T. Thomas Fortune House is one of only two National Historic Landmarks in the state of New Jersey (from a total of 57 such sites) with significance to African American heritage. Fortune, the pioneering African American journalist and editor, purchased the home in 1901, giving it the name of Maple Hill — and it was there that he began to do some of his most important work to change the social landscape of America. The Fortune Family remained in the home until 1913, and the property has been unoccupied for several years, falling into disrepair.
For this reason, the T. Thomas Fortune Project Committee was established two years ago, in a concerted effort to save and preserve the home. All members of the community are welcome to join in the collaborative effort to save this landmark home by attending the “Finding Fortune: Preserving a National Historic Landmark” fundraiser. Tickets ($75) are available only in advance of the event, and reservations (along with additional information on sponsorships) can be found here.
Online donations can also be made via the group’s Rally Page, and checks can be written to Red Bank Men’s Club Foundation (with Thomas Fortune Project in the memo). Mail to Thomas Fortune Project, c/o Red Bank Men’s Club Foundation, PO Box 2007, Westside Station, Red Bank, NJ 07701.
