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MAGNOLIA, N.C. — A North Carolina highway marker honoring Parker D. Robbins was unveiled in Duplin County on Monday as part of the annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration.

Robbins was a freed African-American who became a successful farmer, carpenter, and mechanic. He also served in the House of Representatives in 1869-1870.

Organizers say they are glad the unsung hero is finally getting the recognition he deserves.

"We did a history lesson today because most people didn't even know of the gentleman," said Co-chair of the MLK Commemoration Committee Delilah Gomes. "I am just excited about that and the fact that he is finally getting his justice due."

There are more than 1,500 historical markers in North Carolina. Fourteen of the markers are in Duplin County.