Banneker-Douglass Museum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Mt. Moriah African Methodist Episcopal Church
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Banneker-Douglass Museum, July 2009
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 Location in Maryland
Location in the United States
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| Location | 84 Franklin St., Annapolis, Maryland |
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| Built | 1874 |
| Architectural style | Gothic |
| NRHP reference No. | 73000891 |
| Added to NRHP | January 25, 1973 |
The Banneker-Douglass Museum is a special place in Annapolis, Maryland. It helps us learn about the rich history and culture of African Americans in Maryland. The museum is named after two important figures: Benjamin Banneker and Frederick Douglass.
The Museum Building's History
The building that houses the Banneker-Douglass Museum has a long history. It was originally known as Mt. Moriah African Methodist Episcopal Church. This church was built in 1875 in Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, Maryland.
The church was designed in the Gothic Revival style. This means it has features like pointed arches and tall windows, similar to old European cathedrals. The building was remodeled in 1896 to improve its look.
For nearly 100 years, this building served as a meeting place. It was home to the First African Methodist Episcopal Church. This church group was first formed way back in the 1790s.
In the 1980s, the building got a new purpose. It was leased to the Maryland Commission on African-American History and Culture. This group wanted to create a state museum for African-American history.
In 1984, a new section was added to the building. This made the museum bigger and ready for visitors. That same year, the building officially opened as the Banneker-Douglass Museum.
The building was recognized as important history in 1973. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places. It is also part of the Colonial Annapolis Historic District.
What You Can See at the Museum
The Banneker-Douglass Museum is located at 84 Franklin Street in Annapolis. Its main goal is to keep Maryland's African American heritage alive. It collects and shares stories, objects, and art from this important history.
The museum highlights the amazing things done by famous African American Maryland residents. You can learn about people like Kunta Kinte, Benjamin Banneker, James Pennington, Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Matthew Henson, and Thurgood Marshall.
Besides famous people, the museum also has exhibits about everyday life for Black people in Maryland. You can also see African and African American art. The museum often hosts special events. These include lectures, workshops, performances, and educational programs for all ages.
The Banneker-Douglass Museum is the official place where Maryland keeps its African American historical items. It also has a library and archives. These are places where people can research and learn even more about the past.
See also
