Thomas Mundy Peterson first African American to vote

Background. Perth Amboy, a historic waterfront city in Middlesex County, New Jersey, was the setting for Peterson's vote. The township was replaced by Perth Amboy city on April 8, 1844, and the city served as the location for the local election. Peterson participated in the civic process following the recent enactment of the 15th Amendment, which had been certified just prior to the election.

The Vote. On March 31, 1870, Peterson voted in an election to update the Perth Amboy city charter. This event is widely credited as the first instance of an African American voting under the 15th Amendment. The election took place at Perth Amboy City Hall, a site with historical significance for local governance and earlier ratification of the Bill of Rights.

Immediate Context. The vote occurred in a local election to update the city charter, held at Perth Amboy City Hall. The 15th Amendment had been ratified in February but officially certified on March 30, making Peterson's vote the first under these specific provisions. This timing established his historic status in this specific context.