Manuel R. Pires, Chairman of African Lodge No. 459, Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, introduces Prince Hall as an historical figure, with an emphasis on his achievements and contributions. Hall was an abolitionist and leader in the free black community in Boston. He founded Prince Hall Freemasonry and lobbied for education rights for African American children. Pires makes the case that Prince Hall is an unsung Patriot and forgotten Founding Father who should receive his long overdue recognition.
Robert Steven Shimp is an American record engineer and producer. He was an engineer for Toast Studios from 1996 until they closed their doors. He is known for his work with the West Coast rock band The Donnas, for whom he was a live engineer turned producer, and was an engineer For R.E.M.'s Up.
Manuel R. Pires is Chairman of African Lodge No. 459, Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Massachusetts.