Black History Month: Reflect, Discover, and Explore in Howard County

Black History Month offers a special opportunity to reflect on the past and discover the trailblazers who shaped the future.

Howard County is rich in history, with a wealth of cultural landmarks that illuminate the journey to freedom.

This is the perfect time to explore the history of Black Americans and celebrate their legacy.

Art & Culture: Celebrate the rich history of Black culture in Howard County

Explore the vibrant Black culture of Howard County through its art, history, and heritage at local museums and cultural centers.

Harriet Tubman Cultural Center

Commemorating the legacy of the Harriet Tubman High School and its significance in Howard County’s Black community, this center celebrates the impact of Black education and the continued fight for equality. Originally opened in 1949 as the county’s only all-Black high school, it was preserved as a cultural center in 2015.

Harriet Tubman Cultural Center - It is also the location of the photo at the top of the page.

After discovering Harriet Tubman’s story, explore other significant sites such as the Simpsonville Freetown Legacy Trail, where 17 freed slaves were granted land in 1845. Follow the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom to visit Locust Cemetery, rumored to be a hiding place for Harriet Tubman and fellow freedom seekers.

African Art Museum of Maryland

Don’t miss the African Art Museum of Maryland, one of only three museums in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to African art. Located in Columbia, the museum is renowned for its extensive collection and recognition as one of the top cultural institutions in the state. It’s the perfect place to celebrate African heritage through the lens of art.

The Howard County Center of African American Culture

Immerse yourself in the local experience at this cultural hub, offering exhibits and events that honor the legacy of Black Americans in Howard County.

Howard County Center of African American Culture

Discover Howard County’s Black History Landmarks

Visit historic locations across Howard County that tell the story of Black history and the journey to freedom. These important landmarks offer a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans throughout history.

The Ellicott City Colored School Restored

Visit the The Ellicott City Colored School, a restored one-room schoolhouse that tells the story of Black education in Howard County. This site, opened in 1880, was the first school built with county funds for Black children, offering a glimpse into the educational history during a time of segregation. The building now serves as a museum and genealogical resource center, highlighting the impact of the Brown vs. Board of Education decision in Howard County’s history.

The Ellicott City Colored School Restored

Civil War Trail Sites: Connect with History

Take a journey through history with Civil War Trail Sites across Howard County. Discover how the region played a role in the Civil War while also exploring the legacy of the enslaved people who fought for freedom.

• B&O Railroad Station  – The oldest railroad terminus in the U.S., dating back to 1831, offers a unique glimpse into Civil War-era transportation, guarded by Union troops during the war. Visit this free museum to learn about its significance during the Civil War.

• Oakland Manor –  Explore the grounds of this historic home, where brothers Moses, William, and Joseph Shipley, who were enslaved, worked on the land. Today, the manor serves as a venue for community events.

Note: While the B&O Railroad Station and Oakland Manor are rich in history, they do not specifically feature Black history and may not be the focus of your Black History exploration in Howard County.