Black History on Baltimore’s Waterfront
This Black History Month, learn about our city’s legacy of Black history at these historical sites on Baltimore’s waterfront.
Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park and Museum
Named after two Baltimore legacies, this museum allows visitors to learn about the impact of African Americans on Baltimore’s maritime industry. This site offers a look into the lives of both Frederick Douglass and Isaac Myers, as well as the histories of African Americans in Baltimore and the maritime and trade industries, and how they shaped the city.
Historic President Street Station
Located at 601 S. President St, this site was a former train station that has history in the Civil War and Underground Railroad. This station was part of the Philadelphia, Wilmington, & Baltimore railroad and many people, including Frederick Douglass, used it to escape North as part of the Underground Railroad. It was also the site of the first deaths of the war in 1861. The museum is currently closed until April 2023, but visitors can still see the station itself and read about its history.
500 Block of S. Dallas Street
This block of homes in Fells Point was once known as “Douglass Place”. Long after he left the city of Baltimore, Frederick Douglass bought land on this block and constructed 5 houses that still stand here today. This block is a simple reminder of Douglass’s life and how far he came from where he started in Baltimore.
Billie Holiday House & Murals
Billie Holiday is another famous former resident of Fells Point, where she lived at 217 S. Durham Street. Visit this neighborhood to feel inspired by the streets Lady Day herself walked. The house itself is not marked, but there are two murals depicting the legendary singer on the 200 block of S. Durham St that you can admire.
U.S.S. Constellation
This ship has a long and storied history. For two years of its use, it served as on a squadron working to stop the Trans-Atlantic slave trade from Africa. During this time, the ship’s crew rescued more than 3,500 enslaved people. As part of the Historic Ships of Baltimore, you can view this piece of history on our harbor.
Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture
This museum in downtown Baltimore is devoted to Maryland African American culture and history. In addition to a prolific permanent collection and theater space, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and events. Check out their website to learn about current programs and upcoming events.
The waterfront district and the places mentioned in this article exist on the land of the Piscataway and Susquehannock people. We recognize the past and current systems of oppression against Indigenous peoples and Black Americans that operate in this region as a result of colonialism. In acknowledging the history of these sites, we hope to also join in the work towards a future of justice and healing.
Click here for resources on local history and organizations working towards justice.
