KEENE, NH - The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire, in partnership with the Monadnock Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Coalition (MDEIB) and the Historical Society of Cheshire County, is pleased to announce the installation of a Black Heritage Trail of NH Historic Marker in Keene, New Hampshire, honoring Dr. Albert C. Johnston. This will be the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire’s first historic marker in Keene.
The unveiling ceremony will take place on Saturday, August 15th at 11 AM. The marker’s permanent location and unveiling celebration will be at 127 Washington Street, Keene, NH, on the site of Dr. Johnston’s former home and medical office. Light refreshments will be served after the unveiling ceremony. This event is free and open to the public; all are welcome.
Dr. Albert C. Johnston, an African American physician, and his family lived as white in northern New England during the mid-20th century to overcome racial barriers that limited professional and social opportunities. After being denied a U.S. Navy commission during World War II because of his racial background, Johnston publicly revealed his identity, challenging assumptions about race in a predominantly white community. The family’s story became the basis for the bestselling book and 1949 film Lost Boundaries, one of the earliest American films to confront racial passing and segregation. The story brought national attention to issues of racism that were often overlooked in New England. The Johnstons’ story remains an important cultural touchstone in understanding race relations in New Hampshire and beyond. Today, the site serves as a place of reflection, education, and community dialogue, helping preserve and share an often untold chapter of New Hampshire’s Black history.
Representatives from the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire, the MDEIB Coalition, and the Historical Society of Cheshire County will give brief remarks. Along with representatives of the City of Keene, members of Dr. Johnston’s family will unveil the historic marker.
Preserve Black History in New Hampshire