Intersections: Revisiting Baltimore County's Rosenwald Schools

Abstract

The historic architecture and intangible heritage of many Rosenwald Schools in historically African American communities, are at risk of disappearing due to several factors, including demolition by neglect, new-development gentrification, and community displacement. It is important to preserve and share the history, architecture, and culture of these communities for future generations. These communities have been historically underrepresented, and while change in a community over time is expected, the path forward must include both the preservation of its heritage and addressing the needs of the present community to best serve those who live there. Potential built environment solutions to address this issue include the adaptive reuse of or an addition to an extant Rosenwald School building and its surrounding site to create spaces for the conveyance and celebration of the history and culture of these communities, using the historic Halethorpe Colored School as a model.