Ralph Hunter, Sr., founder of the African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey, has dedicated his life to preserving and celebrating Black history in Atlantic City and beyond. His journey began at 35, inspired by his early experiences organizing artifacts for his employer, Herman Blum, a renowned collector. These formative years sparked Hunter’s passion for preserving the stories and artifacts of Black life in America, culminating in a collection that now spans thousands of pieces.
Initially a personal endeavor, Hunter’s collection found its public voice through a mobile museum, eventually leading to the establishment of two permanent locations: the Dr. Martin Luther King Center in Buena Vista Township and the Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University in Atlantic City. For over 16 years, these spaces have provided a platform to share the rich and often underrepresented history of African Americans in Southern New Jersey.
Hunter’s vision extends far beyond the museum’s current scope. With only 5% of the collection on display at any time, he dreams of creating a larger edifice in Atlantic City to honor the African American legacy of the city, the county, and the region.
A trailblazer and cultural steward, Hunter’s influence has reached far into the community. His partnership with leaders like Brian Jackson, Chief Operating Officer of Stockton University’s Atlantic City campus, has brought transformative cultural enrichment to the area.
As he looks to the future, Hunter plans to document his remarkable life in an autobiography, ensuring that his legacy and the stories he’s preserved continue to inspire generations to come. Ralph Hunter, Sr. is not only preserving history but shaping the cultural landscape of Atlantic City with unwavering dedication and vision.
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