Please join us for our 14th Annual Joint Program of the Baltimore City Historical Society and the Historical Society of Baltimore County.

In 2026, the United States will commemorate 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence—an extraordinary occasion in local, state, and national history. Maryland is participating in its commemoration through a state-wide series of locally-sponsored events collectively called “MD250.”

In mid-December of 1776, facing the imminent threat of British forces advancing on Philadelphia, the Second Continental Congress decided to relocate to Baltimore, choosing the private residence of Henry Fite on Baltimore Street because of its size and relative security. On, January 18, 1777, in Baltimore, the Congress resolved to print an authenticated copy of the Declaration of Independence that included the names of all its signatories to convey unity and resolve and allow the American public to be able identify its leaders. The printing of the authenticated broadside copy of the Declaration was done by Mary Katherine Goddard, a prominent Baltimore postmaster, printer, and publisher.

Who were the people of Baltimore City and County at this time? The BCHS &HSBC Joint Annual Event will kick off the Baltimore City and County celebration of MD250 with a panel of speakers who will address this question. Panelists include Bradley Alston, local public historian, discussing the African American population in 18th century Baltimore; Dr. Nicholas Fessenden, Founder and Director of the Baltimore Immigration Museum, focusing on immigrants; Dr. Deborah Weiner, historian and consultant, speaking about the Jewish population as a religious minority and its legal status during the era; and Shauntee Daniels, Executive Director of the Baltimore National Heritage Area, identifying the range of locations within the Baltimore National Heritage Area that are part of this history. All four panelists are members of the BCHS Board of Directors.

The event will be held at the community hall of the Locust Point Community United Church of Christ, 1308 Beason Street, Baltimore, MD 21230. Free and open to the public. Free parking. The Baltimore Immigration Museum is on the grounds of the Locust Point Community UCC. Tours of the Museum will be available in conjunction with the event.

Location: Locust Point Community United Church of Christ
1308 Beason Street, Baltimore, MD, 21230

For more info: https://www.baltimorecityhistoricalsociety.org/new-events/2025/11/8/bchs-hsbc-annual-joint-program