What's Happening?
Green Mount Cemetery in Baltimore is introducing a new tour titled 'Buried in Plain Sight: The Black Family Servants in Green Mount Cemetery.' This initiative, led by Lashelle Bynum, a volunteer and board member of Baltimore Heritage, aims to uncover
and share the histories of African Americans buried in the cemetery. Historically, the cemetery was believed to have only one African American burial, that of Martha Ann Atavis. However, through extensive research, Bynum and cemetery employees have identified more than a dozen African Americans interred there. The tour will introduce attendees to the lives of enslaved individuals and free servants who were often buried alongside those they served. The two-hour tour is scheduled for August 15 and will be offered at least twice a year, with potential for more frequent tours based on demand.
Why It's Important?
This tour is significant as it sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions and histories of African Americans in Baltimore. By highlighting these stories, the tour provides a more inclusive historical narrative and acknowledges the complex social dynamics of the past. It also serves as an educational tool, fostering a deeper understanding of the city's history and the roles African Americans played in it. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to recognize and preserve African American history, particularly at a time when such narratives are increasingly being brought to the forefront. The tour not only honors those buried at Green Mount Cemetery but also contributes to ongoing discussions about race, history, and memory in the United States.
What's Next?
The success of this tour could lead to its expansion, with more frequent offerings and potentially additional research into other historical sites in Baltimore. Baltimore Heritage plans to continue its efforts in uncovering and sharing the city's rich history through various tours and educational programs. There is also potential for the findings from this research to be shared in lectures or publications, reaching a wider audience. As interest in such historical narratives grows, other cities might adopt similar initiatives, further promoting the recognition of African American contributions to local histories.
