Preservation New Jersey (PNJ) has named MLK House Camden as the first site nominated to its 2024 10 most endangered historic places list. The nomination was unanimous.

PNJ recognizes the significance of the site, not only to African American history but also as an important chapter of New Jersey’s story and as part of the legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and all those who influenced the Civil Rights Movement.

The most-endangered program spotlights irreplaceable historic, architectural, cultural and archeological resources in New Jersey that are in imminent danger of being lost. The list is generated by nominations from the public.

The MLK House Camden, located at 753 Walnut Street was built circa 1900. The site has been beset by numerous problems, such as neglect, flooding, vandalism and fire. Dr. King resided in the house on weekends and during the summers while he was attending Crozer Theological Seminary — then located in Upland, Pennsylvania — from 1948 to 1951. During Dr. King’s time in Camden, he and his friends were refused service in a local bar, Mary’s Café, and physically threatened by the bartender. He would later cite this event as setting him down the path of civil rights activism through passive resistance.

Founded in 1978, Preservation New Jersey is a statewide nonprofit organization that promotes the economic vitality, sustainability, and heritage of New Jersey’s diverse communities through advocacy and education.