Maryland to preserve historic African American schoolhouses.

Rosenwald schools were built across the US to give Black individuals access to education in their communities.

February 21st 2024.

Maryland to preserve historic African American schoolhouses.
For Black people, the fight for education has been a long and difficult journey. Many victories were won in the all-Black Rosenwald schools that were scattered throughout the southern United States. These schools hold a special place in the hearts of Maryland's Black community, as they played a crucial role in educating generations of Black Americans. Efforts are now being made to preserve and honor the history of these institutions.

One of these schools is the Hosanna School, which was built in Harford County, Maryland. It was one of four schools established as part of the Rosenwald initiative, with the goal of providing education to Black students. The school's origins can be traced back to the 1860s when it was known as the "Freedmen's Bureau" school. This was a significant moment for the Black community, as it showed their determination to receive an education during a tumultuous period in American history.

The Hosanna School is just one of many Rosenwald schools across the country. These schools were built to provide a safe and welcoming space for Black students to learn. Today, there are ongoing efforts to preserve the rich history of these schools, as reported by BLACK ENTERPRISE.

The Hosanna School stands as a monument and museum, showcasing the dedication of the Black community to education. Although it stopped operating as a school in the 1940s, it continues to inspire its alumni and supporters to preserve other Rosenwald schools in the region. One such supporter is Charles Givens, a town commissioner and graduate of Elkton Colored School. He hopes to see his alma mater renovated and preserved for future generations.

Givens believes that there is a compelling story that needs to be told about the Rosenwald schools. Despite facing many challenges, the students who attended these schools were able to use their education to make something of themselves. The Hosanna School has been well-maintained over the years, but Elkton Colored School has not received the same level of care. However, there are plans in motion to renovate the 15,000-square-foot facility and make it a prominent piece of Black history.

According to Morgan State Professor Dale Green, who is also the project architect, preserving these schools sends a powerful message to the community. It shows that these places were important in the past and continue to hold significance today. The renovation project aims to create a space where visitors can learn about the history of these schools and hear directly from those who attended them. It's an opportunity to shed light on a lesser-known part of American history and honor the legacy of the Rosenwald schools.

The efforts to preserve these schools are part of a larger movement to recognize and honor the forgotten burial grounds of enslaved people across the country. It's a step towards acknowledging and learning from the past, and creating a better future for all.

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