John J. Smith, a barber, abolitionist, and state legislator, lived at 86 Pinckney Street in Boston from 1878 to 1893. His barbershop served as a hub for abolitionist activity and hosted prominent figures like Senator Charles Sumner. Smith was instrumental in the 1851 rescue of Shadrach Minkins and recruited for African American regiments during the Civil War. He also served multiple terms in the Massachusetts House of Representatives and helped appoint the first Black Boston police officer. Smith passed away in 1906.