The Jackson Family Project
Honoring the Jackson’s through learning, community and play
Rediscovering History
The Jackson Family Project began after the release of the Twin Cities Public Television documentary film “Jim Crow of the North.” Inspired by this rediscovery, Prospect Park residents decided to dig deeper into their neighborhood’s hidden history and the family who brought incredible change home.
Since then, community volunteers have dedicated hundreds of hours to researching, celebrating, and preserving the rich tapestry of historical documents and living stories shared by descendants of the Jackson family.
Today, the Jackson Family Project continues to explore the enduring impact of the Jackson family on Minneapolis and across the nation —honoring the past and inspiring generations to come.
The Jackson Family Playground
Honoring Legacy Through Play
Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Jackson Family Project and community partners, the playground at Pratt School was officially dedicated to the Jackson Family in June 2023.
The Minneapolis Public School Board unanimously approved the naming and invested $172,000 to install new playground equipment and signage that reflect the family’s historic legacy.
The playground serves not only as a space for joy and connection, but also as a living tribute to the resilience and contributions of the Jackson family.
The Playground Dedication Sign Now Reads
“The Jackson Family Playground at Pratt school is designed to honor the first African American family in the Prospect Park neighborhood.
At this time, around 2,500 Black people lived in Minneapolis. The Jackson family built their home in Prospect Park in 1908. In 1909, large crowds appeared at their house on Franklin Avenue (formerly Hamline) telling them to leave because they were Black. The father, Madison Jackson, was told that no one would play with his children.
In response Madison built a playground in their yard. This was before the neighborhood had park or school playgrounds. As he suspected, many neighborhood children wanted to play with his children on the new playground. The Jacksons lived in the neighborhood for 20 years and became important members of the community. Their daughters were the first African American students to attend Pratt school.
Resilience marked the Jackson family, not only in their Prospect Park years but for generations.
Marvel, the oldest daughter moved to New York. She was in a writing group with Langston Hughes and worked for W.E.B. Du Bois. She became a well known journalist and wrote extensively on the condition of African American women. Helen, the middle daughter became the first African American President of the national YWCA, and led the YWCA out of its period of segregation. Zelma, the youngest daughter became a clothing designer in New York City.”
Annual Events
Annual events, including Jackson Family Day at Pratt School, engage students and community members through educational activities, art, and direct interactions with Jackson family descendants.
These initiatives offer meaningful opportunities to explore themes of race, resilience, and community history.
In recognition of these efforts, the City of Minneapolis officially declared a city-wide "Jackson Family Day" in 2024.
