Newburgh Street Dedicated to Julius Robinson Sr.

NEWBURGH – Pastor Stacey Brooks of the City of Newburgh made sure to bring his 15 year old son to Friday’s renaming of Julius Robinson Sr. Memorial Drive Ceremony, honoring the late Julius H Robinson.

His reasoning was very clear. “I want him to see how special this man was,” said Brooks. “I want him to see firsthand the incredible impact he had on this community; it is evidenced by the large crowd here today.” Brooks, like many on hand at Friday’s Street Dedication, recalled a man, who was not only a very talented and dedicated plumber, but also kind, friendly and giving to both his customers and his community.

A master plumber, Robinson started his own business, Julius H. Robinson Plumbing and Heating, in the early 1990s at 171 Chambers Street. Another highly reputable title was attached to that enterprise: the first certified African-American plumber to start a business in the City of Newburgh. Passing away in 2014, Robinson’s work continues to be carried on by his son, Julius H. Robinson Jr. A City Council resolution was recently passed last year, noting Mr. Robinson’s stellar reputation as a plumber whose services were desired by all races, religions and ethnicities. Friday, that appreciation came to full fruition, as a street sign designating, “Julius Robinson Memorial Drive” was unveiled in front of Robinson’s family, friends, community members and local dignitaries.

“Today is a sort of historical marker in our City’s history to recognize Mr. Robinson’s history, the foundations he set as an entrepreneur, family and community man; he will be a role model for generations to come,” said Karen Mejia, Councilwoman, Ward I. “He is symbolic of the commitment the City is making to fix and help the community.”

Another local political dignitary, City of Newburgh Councilwoman, Hillary Rayford, echoed Mejia’s sentiments about Robinson’s indelible footprint on Newburgh.

“Lets take this banner of love here today and spread it throughout the community; it’s just what is needed,” said Rayford. “This is beautiful.”

Also present at the Street Dedication was Torrance Harvey, City of Newburgh Councilman. Recalling his many positive dealings with Mr. Robinson, Harvey smiled as he spoke about his dear friend.
“No matter the hour, he would come to do work on my home,” said Harvey, who helped unveil the street sign. “Mr. Robinson was and will continue to be a pillar in this community.”

Several of Robinson’s family were present at the Ceremony. Among them was his wife, Patricia Robinson. Pointing out her husband’s talents as a plumber, she was also quick to cite his attributes as a person.

“My husband loved the City of Newburgh, and he always went around showing that love,” said Ms. Robinson. “My sadness is he is not here today, but in many ways he is still here with all of us.”
Reflecting further while looking around Chambers Street, where her husband’s street sign is now proudly displayed between South and Farrington Streets, she added, “I can recall him often talking with the men on this street who were struggling, and doing whatever he could to offer them hope; he would do anything at all for the City of Newburgh.”

Friday, that City he loved dearly, paid back the favor with the symbolic street honor, keeping his memory alive for many, many years to come.