OUR HISTORY

Our story begins with a man, a Black man, “free” born in 

New Jersey who worked hard to provide for his family. 

The purchase of his home (1889) established a legacy that produced and inspired the telling of his importance as African American history, a family man, a Canal Captain, a man of faith, and a “free” man who faced adversity. His challenges make him relatable to anyone and everyone who has faced some sort of trial, test, and situation that impacted them in some way.

Captain James Campbell, along with other African American workers, were “active” participants in the daily operations of the Morris Canal which helped to positively affect the economic growth and development within New Jersey.