HAGERSTOWN, MD News (5/30/2024) – The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Hagerstown community celebrated the unveiling of a new roadside historical marker that commemorates the history of an African American enclave in Washington County. The marker, located along Jonathan Street in central Hagerstown, honors the community that emerged in the 18th century and became an economic hub by the 1890s.
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The Jonathan Street neighborhood, home to German immigrants and later Black families, was the site of an archaeological dig by MDOT, revealing artifacts associated with these early residents. The historical marker now stands as a tribute to the resilience and heritage of this community.
“This historical marker symbolizes more than just the physical revitalization of the historic Jonathan Street community; it stands as a testament to the community’s resilience and rich heritage,” said Reggie Turner, co-founder of the Western Maryland Community Development Corporation and nominator of the historical marker. “It has been an immense privilege to contribute to this project, highlighting our collective commitment to preserve and celebrate the narratives that shape this vibrant community. Today, we commemorate not just a place, but a legacy of strength and unity that defines Jonathan Street.”
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During the 19th and 20th centuries, the Jonathan Street area flourished with homes, stores, restaurants, hotels, and religious and fraternal organizations. Two establishments in the community were listed in the “Green Book,” a travel guide used by African Americans during the Jim Crow era from the 1930s through the 1960s to identify businesses that were safe and welcoming for African American travelers.
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The new historical marker is installed at the U.S. Post Office at 44 West Franklin St., near Asbury United Methodist Church. The dedication ceremony saw attendance from various community leaders and state officials.
“On behalf of the Moore-Miller Administration, I’m honored to be a part of the celebration and commemorate this thriving African American community in Hagerstown,” said Jawauna Greene, Maryland Department of Transportation Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs and Strategy. “Maryland’s roadside historical marker program highlights the state’s rich and diverse past for all to learn about and remember.”
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Dr. Julie Schablitsky, Chief Archaeologist and Director of the Maryland Department of Transportation Office of Cultural Resources, attended the unveiling along with representatives from the Maryland Historical Trust, Maryland Commission of African American History and Culture, Western Maryland Community Development Corporation, elected officials, and local community members.
The Maryland Roadside Historical Marker Program, managed by MDOT and the Maryland Historical Trust, aims to highlight the state’s rich history. This latest addition serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy and contributions of the African American community in Hagerstown.
The ceremony concluded with reflections on the significance of preserving such historical narratives, ensuring they remain a visible and integral part of Maryland’s cultural landscape. The Jonathan Street marker is a step towards acknowledging and celebrating the diverse history that has shaped the region.
Story by multiple RFHC contributors.
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