Company Profile

Company Overview

The Paul Robeson House of Princeton (PRHOP)
The PRHOP is a social justice organization headquartered at Paul Robeson’s birthplace, a residential property located at 110 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, NJ. The House occupies an important corner in the historic Witherspoon Jackson Neighborhood – a 10 by 4 block section in the heart of Princeton which is one of the oldest African American communities in New Jersey. Inspired by his courageous life, our mission is to promote social justice consistent with the values and actions of Princeton’s native son, Paul Leroy Robeson. Paul’s father, Rev William Drew Robeson, was the pastor of Witherspoon Street Presbyterian Church (WSPC). Rev. Robeson was separated from WSPC due largely to his strident activist positions in the quest for fair treatment of African Americans, migrant workers, and the poor. Woodrow Wilson was among the Presbyterian leaders who terminated his employment and removed the family from what had been their home -- the church manse. Paul Robeson’s unbowed character was greatly shaped by the example his father set. The Robeson House is more than a mere birthplace or historic manse - it is the sacred site of the birth of a struggle against injustice.

The vision of PRHoP is that Robeson’s birthplace will be a lasting tribute to the achievements and staunch commitment to social and racial justice of Paul Robeson and the Robeson family. As a result, generations to come will have an appreciation for rich African American cultural traditions, history and heritage in Princeton and globally.

Having won a two-year Mellon Humanities in Place Grant, the Board and Advisory Committee are focused on restoring the Robeson House and Celebrating Robeson's 125th Birthday. We expect to Make Robeson a HouseHold Name.