February is Black History Month. If you hail from Maryland, you already know that many prominent Blacks of historic acclaim have played crucial roles in shaping the state’s past. From active Underground Railroad conductors like Harriet “Moses” Tubman to social-reforming abolitionists such as Frederick Douglass, there’s no shortage of great names comprising the list of those who have contributed immensely to the quest for justice and equality. But one of the earliest key players in the history books was a brilliant-minded, largely self-taught paradigm in his day—one who made a notable name for himself and earned a well-respected reputation that transcended the “skin-deep” limitations of the day. That man was none other than Benjamin Banneker.
Banneker was born on November 9, 1731, in Baltimore County, Maryland, to a free African American mother and a father who had formerly been enslaved. To say that his living situation was unusual per the norms back then would be a vast understatement, given how Banneker proved to be a gifted Jack of many trades, so to speak. Regarded as one of the first major pioneering African American men of science, his versatile “career” spanned many fields, including mathematics, astronomy, farming, and countless others. One of his biggest claims to fame is having assisted noted American land surveyor Major Andrew Ellicott with recording the original borders of the District of Columbia. He also authored a series of almanacs based on his wealth of knowledge about astronomy and frequently corresponded with Thomas Jefferson on several topics, including slavery, racial justice, human rights, and equality.
Another unique fact about Benjamin Banneker was how he went on to become a landowner—a feat that was almost unheard of at that time in history. And it was this land that now makes up the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum. Spanning more than 100 acres, you’ll find the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum based in historic Oella, in Catonsville, Maryland. While you’ve undoubtedly heard about the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum in Annapolis, famed for being Maryland’s official museum dedicated to African American history and culture, I recommend the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum for a more centralized approach to the history, life, and legacy of Benjamin Banneker in general. It also makes for a low-key, free day trip option.
As the name implies, the property contains both a museum and a historic site laden with many featured highlights and unique attributes. Extensive archeological areas, lengthy and scenic nature trails, picnic areas, and more lay the groundwork for these vast, scenic grounds. The Benjamin Banneker Historical Park even holds the title of being the largest original African American historical site in the United States.
The museum’s exhibits include both permanent displays and rotating presentations centering around local history, art, culture, science, and the overall significance of Banneker’s life. The collection includes replicas of his now-lost almanacs, tools from the day, authenticated artifacts, and interactive, hands-on features, among many other callouts.
A reconstructed cabin sits on the property—a testament and a reminder of how Benjamin Banneker must have lived. The implemented restorations to the cabin include 18th-century-specific furnishings and décor along with common, everyday items Banneker would have relied on daily.
The surrounding gardens are seasonally stocked with the same plentiful produce and herbs common of colonial-era farms. With the changing seasons, different blooms grace the agrarian vibe of the onsite orchards, further reflecting with authenticity those agricultural interests Banneker would have cultivated.
Then, there are all those miles of impressive walking trails to explore. One of the most popular ones is the historic Number 9 Trolley Line Trail. And let’s not forget about the aforementioned picnic areas and even a pavilion you can rent out for group events.
Furthermore, the Benjamin Banneker Museum and Historical Park is always playing host to something awesome to come check out! From programs to living history demos and activities, it truly is a treasured experience coming here any time!
The museum is open daily between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. They are closed on holidays observed by Baltimore County. The park grounds are open from sunrise to sunset each day. Visit the site link to find out.