Historically Significant Communities to be Recognized With New Interpretive Signage

Please join Anne Arundel County on Tuesday June 15th, to help unveil two new interpretive signs highlighting the people and heritage of two very special historic communities; Freetown and Pumphrey. Both are historically African American enclaves in North County, founded before Emancipation.

As we prepare to celebrate Juneteenth, their legacy deserves recognition as these communities have defined and influenced the North County region of Anne Arundel County for nearly 200 years. From the churches and schools, to community centers and associations, their respective institutions remain important and influential pillars of the local community today. Becasue of the recent Boundary Amendment, these communities are now part of the Four Rivers Heritage Area.

This historic sign initiative, launched in 2020 by the Office and Planning and Zoning and its Cultural Resources Section, will install 10 wayside interpretive signs this year, highlighting historic places that matter. Most will be located at public parks and on trails across the County to reach as broad of an audience as possible. The signs celebrate and raise awareness about local heritage sites that have had a profound influence on the County’s history and development. Learn more about the other Historic Markers & Wayside Interpretive Signs being installed.

Please join the unveiling on Tuesday June 15th, 2021 at 3PM to celebrate local history at the Freetown Community Park (7811-7817 Freetown Rd, Glen Burnie, MD 21060).

For more information, email Jane Cox at [email protected].