| About Us |
| Cultural Festival Board President Greetings Letter | This festival is a unique event focusing on community and families. Among its highlights is the Historic Settlements Exhibit. This exhibit chronicles the lives of the descendants of Baltimore County’s African American residents. There are some forty (40) historic African American settlements in Baltimore County. The Historic Settlements Exhibit is the largest single exhibit, and each year, it draws the largest number of visitors. The exhibit includes hundreds of old photos and memorabilia, as well as oral presentations by members of some of the communities who tell about life in those communities when they were vibrant and filled with black families. There is also a bus tour of some of the neighborhoods. We believe this is a compelling story made more so by the presence of a unit of the Buffalo Soldiers. Each year hundreds of visitors, especially children, walk through the Buffalo Soldiers exhibit and are enthralled by stories of the exploits of this heroic group of African Americans. Funds from sponsors help cover the costs of mounting the photo exhibits and providing buses for the tours. Other highlights of the festival are the artists and crafts people who exhibit and sell their goods. Food vendors provide festivalgoers with a variety of ethnic cuisine. A children’s area with games, contests, storytelling and entertainers is another popular attraction. Since its inception, the festival has featured national and well-known local musicians who thrill the crowd. Last year, we were moved by the soulful sounds of the legendary Ashford & Simpson. In past years were enjoyed headliners such as: Stephanie Mills, Geoffrey Osbourne, The Isley Brothers, Chubby Checker, Pieces of a Dream, and many many others. This year will prove to be no exception, as we explore possibilities for our national headliner. Description of Charitable and Educational ProgramsThe Festival serves as a vehicle to showcase Baltimore County communities and its residents. However, it also serves as a means of raising funds to support charitable programs charged to the Festival Board. Some of these projects include: Scholarships Each year scholarships are awarded to high school students pursuing careers in business, science, education and the arts. Students are to have good academic credentials, as well as be significantly involved in their communities through public service. No student is denied access to the process because of race, sex or religion. However, children of Board members are not eligible; Summer Camps Each summer, funds from the Festival are utilized to sponsor a Summer Camp for Baltimore County students. These funds help to provide supplies, materials, snacks and various day trips. Also, the Board also approves requests to sponsor kids at specific camps that they might not otherwise be able to afford. Historical Preservation The Board researches historical treasures in Baltimore in need of preservation. Efforts are made to restore and/or preserve the items or bring attention to historical landmarks. These funds are used to restore buildings; excavate historic sites; publish books, pamphlets and other written material about the history of the various communities in Baltimore County and present exhibits and forums to share this history with the general public. Local historians, residents and interested volunteers also participate in this project.
Baltimore County African American Cultural
Festival, Inc.
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