Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum (BBHPM)
What an amazing historical venue! Since my very first visit to the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum (BBHPM) in Catonsville, I am excited about each opportunity to visit the Museum and the beautiful grounds within the Park. There are points of interest for so many people within the Park and Museum… U.S. history, Maryland history, African-American history, science, math, engineering, astronomy, nature, etc. I encourage you to visit the BBHPM and consider helping to preserve the legacy of Maryland’s Benjamin Banneker by supporting the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum as a member of The Friends of Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum. I learned much about Benjamin Banneker, his family, and the history of Baltimore County as well as Howard County history during my initial chat with Cynthia T De Jesus, President of The Friends of BBHPM. What passion and commitment for the organization’s mission… “to provide well-researched educational, historical, and cultural programs and exhibits regarding the life of Benjamin Banneker.”
I will definitely be attending some of the educational, historical, and cultural programs. I truly enjoyed watching the documentary drama, “The Man Who Loved The Stars” (starring the late Ossie Davis) on my visit this past weekend. Still much to learn about the life and legacy of Benjamin Banneker! He was a free, self-educated, African-American scientist, abolitionist, mathematician, astronomer, almanac author, surveyor, and naturalist. He was born in Baltimore County, Maryland, to a free African-American woman and a former slave. Benjamin Banneker is best known for his almanacs; correspondence with Thomas Jefferson; and technical support during the surveying of the original borders of the federal capital district of the United States,the present day Washington, DC. The Benjamin Banneker “story” starting with his maternal grandparents is a fascinating story; and then there is his connection to the Ellicott brothers and historic Ellicott City! Indeed the legacy of Benjamin Banneker must be preserved and shared with others especially the youth. Please note that my photos definitely do Not show all to be seen or experienced at the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum. I still must walk and explore the trails! You (and your family) must visit to truly appreciate the “Benjamin Banneker” experience! (Photo credit: Sally Cherry)
A special “Thank You” goes to my “sister friend”, Rev. Dr. Anita Gould for telling me about the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum! Rev. Gould is the Pastor of the historic Mt. Gilboa African Methodist Episcopal Church, the oldest active African-American church in Baltimore County. Yes, there is a Banneker connection… It is believed that Benjamin Banneker may have attended services on the historic site. It has been noted that his remains may be buried in an unmarked grave within the Mt Gilboa AME Church Cemetery. In 1977, an obelisk dedicated to the memory of Benjamin Banneker was erected on the grounds of Mt. Gilboa AME Church. Indeed, Benjamin Banneker left a fascinating historical legacy within Baltimore County!
For more information about the hours of operation for the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum, click here.
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