Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages (D – Lawrence) recognized Nassau County trailblazer Julius Pearse during his 89th birthday party that was held in his honor on July 8 at the Joysetta and Julius Pearse African American Museum of Nassau County. He celebrated alongside his son Gary Pearse, 69, with whom he shares a July 6 birthday.

During the festivities, Legislator Solages recognized Julius Pearse for his lifetime of historic achievements, including becoming Freeport’s first Black police officer in 1962; helping to establish the Nassau County Guardians Association, Inc. and his many contributions as a community leader, small business owner, genealogist and museum operator.

“Working alongside his dearly departed wife Joysetta, Julius Pearse and his family are responsible for launching and sustaining Nassau County’s beautiful African American Museum – a beacon of historic and cultural education that every resident should visit and support,” Solages said. “The fact that this is just one of his many contributions to our County illustrates what a trailblazer he has been throughout his life. It was a pleasure to join in this celebration of a wonderful man who continues to live a life of service.”