The Jackson Family Project
Honoring the story of the Jackson family through education, community and play.
Rediscovering History
The Jackson Family Project began after the release of the Twin Cities Public Television documents “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community volunteers have dedicated hundreds of hours to researching, celebrating, and preserving the rich tapestry of historical documents and living stories shared by descendants of the Jackson family.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.
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.
Partners & Funders
The Jackson Family Project Committee includes descendants of the Jackson family—Sharon Peters, Judith Claytor, and Dr. Melvin Peters—as well as representatives from Pratt Community School, Pratt Parent-Teacher Organization, Prospect Park Association, and neighborhood residents.
Additional support includes the University of Minnesota Good Neighbor Fund, Prospect Park Coop Legacy Fund, City of Minneapolis Neighborhood Community Relations, and individual donors.
