Benjamin Banneker Storyteller Robert Smith. Photo courtesy of Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum
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Benjamin Banneker Historical Park & Museum
Dedicated on June 9, 1998, the Benjamin Banneker
Historical Park & Museum in Baltimore was the culmination of
almost two decades of research, planning, development,
construction, and struggle to re-establish the homestead of
Benjamin Banneker, the first renowned African-American man of
mathematics and science. Its inauguration was commemorated with a
special Banneker U.S. postmark.
Benjamin Banneker first achieved national acclaim for
his scientific work in the 1791 survey of the Federal Territory
(now Washington, D.C.). At age 22, in the mid-1750s, Banneker
created the first all-American-made wood clock of this colonial
region. But perhaps he is best known for his six almanacs published
between 1792 and 1797. He has been noted also for his exchange of
letters with Thomas Jefferson on the equality of men and the
"injustice of the State of Slavery."
The Banneker Historical Park & Museum,
established on the very land purchased by Robert and Mary Banneker
in 1734, serves as an educational institution to preserve the
history of Benjamin Banneker, as well as the cultural and natural
history of early American times. The Museum offers an array of
special events in history, visual and performing arts, science and
the environment. exhibition and firm screenings are regular
on-going programs of the Museum.
The Museum's Collection is extensive and diverse,
from archaeological artifacts of the Bannekers' era (including
pieces of lens, lead pencils, and instruments most likely used by
Benjamin Banneker himself), to artifacts formerly held by the
Ellicott family -- best friends of Banneker (including his work
table, candle molds, candlesticks), to books and other publications
donated to the Museum, especially on African-American history.
Most of the 142-acre Banneker Park is stream valley
woodland, dedicated to the conservation of wildlife habitat and the
preservation of the natural history of our land. This historic park
features panoramic nature trails, archaeological sites, and living
history areas which recreate the colonial farm and life of the
Bannekers.
Project documentation includes written text, nine
color photographs with descriptions, several museum brochures, and
a video entitled "Grand Opening Celebration, June 9, 1998."
Originally submitted by: Elijah E. Cummings, Representative (7th District).
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The Local Legacies project provides a "snapshot" of American Culture as it was expressed in spring of 2000. Consequently, it is not being updated with new or revised information with the exception of "Related Website" links.
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