“A certain wicked, false, seditious, scandalous, malicious, and infamous Libel”

In the final act of his life, the colonial printer, James Parker (1714-1770) found himself hauled before New York’s Lieutenant Governor and accused of participating in “a certain wicked, false, seditious, scandalous, malicious, and infamous Libel.” The irony was that for most of his adult life, Parker was devoted to serving his community, his clients and his King. This presentation will explore Parker’s life, focusing on his association with the radical “Son of Liberty,” Alexander MacDougall—and how the printer was sucked into the brewing maelstrom of New York on the eve of revolution.

Though dead for almost 240 years, James Parker has become something of a friend to Gordon Bond – someone he bumps into from time to time on the dusty shelves of archives and libraries. Getting to know this underappreciated colonial printer has proven a challenging labor of love for Bond, who worked in his spare hours since late 1999 to create an accurate and detailed biography. “James Parker: A Printer on the Eve of Revolution,” is due out spring of 2008 by New Jersey Heritage Press.

His days are spent working as both a professional and freelance graphic artist, but his off-hours are usually spent pursuing his passion for history. He is presently working with Stephanie Hoagland on a comprehensive survey of New Jersey’s folk grave marker tradition, collects antique cameras and is a member of The Historical Association of Woodbridge Township and Friends of the Abraham Staats House (South Bound Brook, NJ). www.CommonBondHistorians.com.

Programs are free • 7:30 pm at the Brick Academy
Refreshments • Family & Friends welcomed!

Directions to the Brick Academy – Click Here