Maryland Lawmaker Leads Push to Save Historic Underground Railroad Site

State Senator Carl Jackson is leading a public tour of the Dowden Chapel and Cemetery this Thursday. The event aims to rally support for preserving a key piece of African American history in Nottingham, Maryland. The site served as a critical stop on the Underground Railroad.This initiative seeks to secure state funding for urgent renovations. According to the Maryland State Archives, the location holds immense historical value for the region.

From Freedom Path to Schoolhouse

Dowden Chapel provided refuge for enslaved people seeking freedom before the Civil War. Its secluded location made it an ideal hiding spot. After emancipation, the building transitioned into a one-room schoolhouse for Black children during the segregation era.James Harvey, a chapel trustee, will guide the tour. He attended the school as a child. Harvey and his siblings were among the first non-white students to integrate into Perry Hall Elementary after segregation ended.The surrounding cemetery contains hand-carved gravestones dating back generations. Many graves are unmarked, highlighting the site’s age and the community’s limited resources at the time.

A Broader Effort for Historical Preservation

Senator Jackson’s tour includes key stakeholders who can aid preservation. Attendees will include Chairman Ben Zucker and representatives from Morgan State University. Their involvement signals serious political and academic backing for the project.Successful preservation would create an educational resource for the entire state. It would honor the resilience of Maryland’s African American communities. The effort also aims to prevent the further decay of this unique landmark.

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The push to save this historic African American landmark represents a crucial investment in local history. Protecting sites like Dowden Chapel ensures future generations understand the full scope of American history. The tour this Thursday is a vital step in that direction.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: Where is the Dowden Chapel located?

The Dowden Chapel and Cemetery is located at 4310 Ridge Road in Nottingham, Maryland. It is situated within Maryland’s 8th Legislative District. The area is recognized for its historical significance.

Q2: What was the chapel’s role after the Civil War?

After the Civil War, the building was used as a schoolhouse for Black children during segregation. This was before the integration of public schools. It served the local African American community for decades.

Q3: Who is leading the preservation tour?

The tour is being led by State Senator Carl Jackson. He is organizing the event to raise awareness and secure funding. Chapel trustee James Harvey will provide the historical tour on-site.

Q4: Why is state funding important for this site?

State funding is crucial for necessary structural renovations and long-term maintenance. Private resources for such historical sites are often limited. Official support helps ensure the landmark’s survival for future generations.

Q5: What other organizations are involved?

Leaders from Morgan State University and the Maryland State Archives are participating. Their expertise will help document and validate the site’s history. This collaboration strengthens the preservation bid.