As some of you know I've done a lot of research on George W.
Johnson, the first African-American recording star (in the 1890s). In the
course of researching the book Lost
Sounds I located his unmarked pauper's grave in Maple Grove Cemetery in Kew
Gardens, Queens, NY. This is a notable cemetery, and its historical society has
since raised funds for a plaque which will be unveiled on Saturday, April 12, 2014, along with talks and a celebration of his
life, including an actor portraying him(!). The program starts at 2:00 p.m.,
and I'd like to invite anyone in the New York area to attend. It's free (even
the parking), and accessible by car, subway (E or F line) or bus. More
information is at http://www.friendsofmaplegrove.org/ and http://www.maplegrove.biz/.