African American Heritage 

Discover an Enduring Heritage
Maryland’s African-American experience is full of accomplishments and sacrifices, past and present, that have shaped both a culture and a nation. Begin in Baltimore, where you’ll find museums, parks and destinations celebrating Mother Mary Lange, Frederick Douglass and music legends Eubie Blake, Chick Webb and Cab Calloway. Join a walking tour of the Pennsylvania Avenue Heritage Trail, which reveals the area’s jazz roots and its role in the Civil Rights movement. Experience the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum, which takes visitors on a unique journey with lifelike exhibits, and don’t miss the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of African American History and Culture. Then explore the thriving cultural legacy in Maryland’s landscapes where you can enjoy a trip on the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway.

 
Harriet Tubman
Harriet Tubman is the Underground Railroad’s most famous conductor. Born into slavery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, she successfully escaped to Philadelphia in 1849, then boldly returned 13 times to rescue family and friends and guide them safely to freedom. Discover her homeland and feel the risk and promise of freedom in places familiar to her.

Frederick Douglass
Rising above his humble beginnings in slavery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Frederick Douglass learned to read and write and then escaped from bondage, while working in Baltimore’s shipyards. Using his acute acumen and incisive writing and oratory skills, he became a leader of the abolitionist movement, a social reformer and statesman. Follow in his footsteps and be inspired by his legacy.

African American Heritage Attractions Maryland is known for its rich history of local men and women from humble backgrounds whose contributions helped strengthen the foundation of fairness and equality to which we continuously strive for today. View or order your African American Heritage Travel Guide and check out our African American Heritage Attractions.

Maryland's Network to Freedom Explore a collection of sites, programs and facilities that are tied to the story of the Underground Railroad. Become familiar with the stories  from this tumultuous era in our nation’s history - when slaves struggled for freedom and others risked their lives to help them. Each of these sites in this guide are in the National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program. View or order the guide.

Reunions
Maryland offers the perfect location for your next reunion. Throughout the state, you’ll find diverse destinations, tours , attractions and accommodations to make your next get together a memorable one.

Festivals
Honor the past while celebrating in the present! Maryland hosts a number of ethnic events and celebrations of African-American pride and heritage.

• Cherish African American Culture (three-day tour)
• Civil War and Underground Railroad Itinerary