September 16, 2026 |City of Lynn, Events, History, News, Parks

City of Lynn to Honor Community Leader Abner W. Darby with Commemorative Installation at Harbor Park

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From the City of Lynn: The City of Lynn will honor the extraordinary legacy of Abner W. Darby, a trailblazing civil rights advocate, community leader, and champion for equity, with a special installation ceremony on Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Lynn Harbor Park.

Community members, elected officials, family, friends, and former colleagues are invited to gather in celebration of someone whose decades of service transformed countless lives and helped shape a more inclusive Lynn.

“Mr. Darby’s impact is deeply rooted into the history and legacy of Lynn and the long struggle for civil rights and equity in this community. The City is thrilled to honor Mr. Darby for not only his work but also for the example he has set, reminding us that progress is built by neighbors who have the courage to challenge injustice, make change and work together to make Lynn a better and more equitable place for everyone.” – Mayor Jared C. Nicholson

Born and raised in Austin, Texas, Darby attended Prairie View University before honorably serving in the United States Army. After settling in Lynn, he built a successful career as a master mechanic, business owner, and housing manager. However, it was his leadership as executive director of the Community Minority Cultural Center (CMCC) that left his greatest and most enduring impact on the city.

Throughout his career, Darby dedicated himself to breaking down barriers created by discrimination and expanding opportunity for all residents. Through the CMCC, he worked tirelessly to strengthen relationships among Lynn’s diverse communities while creating pathways to employment, education, and civic engagement. Under his leadership, the organization provided job fairs, computer training, English as a Second Language classes, after-school programming, cultural celebrations and community workshops that enriched the lives of thousands.

“Abner Darby’s legacy is woven into the fabric of Lynn. He understood that true community leadership means opening doors, creating opportunities, and making sure that everyone has a chance to be seen, heard and included,” said City Councilor Nicole McClain.  “As a black elected official in this City, I recognize that I stand on the shoulders of people like Mr. Darby, who did the difficult work of challenging barriers and creating pathways for those who would come after him. It is an honor to help ensure that his contributions to Lynn are remembered and that his legacy continues to inspire future generations.”

Darby was instrumental in advancing recruitment and training efforts that opened doors for greater diversity within the civil service, helping pave the way for minority firefighters, police officers, and other public servants. His unwavering commitment to equality, fairness and opportunity made him one of Lynn’s most respected community leaders.

Former Congressman John F. Tierney once described Darby as someone who “worked tirelessly to erase discrimination and open doors and create equal access and equal opportunity for all people regardless of race, creed, or national origin.” His leadership, generosity, and ability to bring people together continue to inspire generations of community leaders.

The installation ceremony will feature remarks from Mayor Jared C. Nicholson, local leaders, members of the Darby family, community advocates and faith leaders as the City of Lynn formally recognizes Abner Darby’s remarkable contributions and enduring legacy.

Speakers:

• Jared C. Nicholson – Mayor of the City of Lynn
• Brenda Womack – Minister Deacon of the Zion Baptist Church
• Lynn Public Schools Band
• Bethel AME Church Choir with keyboard accompanist Joel LaRue Smith
• Bria Bellum – Pastor of Bethel AME Church
• Fred Hogan – Ward 6 City Councilor
• Darrell Murkison – Executive Director, Community Minority Cultural Center
• Roy Rhodes – President, Community Minority Cultural Center
• Louis Sport – Former employee and close friend of Mr. Abner Darby
• Cathy Darby – Daughter of Mr. Abner W. Darby
• Thomas McGee – Former Mayor of the City of Lynn