Matthew Henson: “A Negro Explorer at the North Pole”

Celebrate Black History With Us!

Matthew Henson: “A Negro Explorer at the North Pole,” portrayed by Keith Henley, American Historical Theatre.

Receiving many honors posthumously, Matthew Henson was much overlooked throughout his entire career as an explorer. Though he traveled throughout the northern hemisphere and is acknowledged as the first man to reach the North Pole, his accomplishments were overshadowed by his colleague, Commander Robert Peary. 

Henson faced and overcame many of the limitations and struggles inherent for African Americans at the time. Orphaned at a young age, Henson worked hard to earn his way from being employed as a dishwasher, to a position as a Cabin boy, and eventually, he became a skilled navigator, and explorer.

Reflecting back he wrote two books about his experiences, “A Negro Explorer at the North Pole” and “Dark Companion”. The story of Matthew Henson’s fascinating life encourages one to believe in oneself despite the odds, and to rise above the limited expectations of others to reach any goal.

Join us for this performance by Keith Henley of the American Historical Theatre.

This FREE program is open to all, and is hosted by Plainfield Public Library and the Historical Society of Plainfield / Drake House Museum.

Our programs are made possible in part by operating support grants from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State - additionally through a grant administered by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, Department of Parks and Recreation; and by a 2023 HEART (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) Grant from the Union County Board of County Commissioners.