A Historical Reenactment
A Visit with James Forten, Philadelphia Sailmaker and Abolitionist performed by Kieth Henley
Wednesday, February 18th at 7:00pm
In-person and via Zoom at Triumph Brewery, 2 Bridge Avenue, Red Bank
Doors at 6:30pm 7:00pm Performance 8:30 close
NMHA has enlisted Keith Henley, of the American Historical Theatre, who will appear in historical costume as James Forten, a Black sailmaker. Through his reenactment, Keith Henley will inform us about this important figure. This is NMHA'a first reenactment event repesenting a real person in our Nation's history. It is also NMHA's first activity in 2026 celebtating America's 250th anniversary.
James Forten of Philadelphia, a child at the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, served the American Revolution as a teenage privateer and Patriot. Following the American Revolution, this “Gentleman of Color” took up sailmaking, establishing himself as a leading businessman in the early American republic’s principal port.
A free Black American, James Forten fought for the abolition of slavery and rights of African Americans in the United States he helped to forge.
Please click on 'register' at the left of your screen to register for this event,
Note: You must hit 'confirm'as the last step to complete your registrstion
Zoomers must register before 5:30pm on 2/18 in order to receive the Zoom link
About Keith Henely
Keith Henley’s background is one of great diversity. He graduated from South Carolina State College with a major in Chemistry and minor in mathematics and biology. Later, he went on to study Theatre Education at Camden County College in Blackwood, New Jersey. He currently owns and operates J.O.Y. Productions, Queenie’s Homemade Sweets and Catering, & Alpha Designs. In addition, he is the Artistic Director and Choreographer for Folkloric Heritage Culture Arts Company Inc. of Cherry Hill, New Jersey.
Keith began his historic interpretation career with Historic Philadelphia Inc. and has since worked for American Historical Theatre. He is presently serving as Artistic director for Transformation Theatre Productions of Camden and is the Director of the Theatre Ministry at First Nazarene Baptist Church, Camden. He also serves as the Stage Manager for Chosen Vessels Inc of Philadelphia.
Navesink Maritime Heritage Association
Navesink Maritime Heritage Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to engaging Eastern Monmouth County with maritime and water related historical, skill building, environmental, and recreational activities, and encouraging responsible use of the Navesink estuary through its Discover, Engage, and Sustain approach.
Contact: myhumphreys@gmail.com
