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Having played a prominent role in history, Maryland’s
African Americans continue to serve as progressive leaders
of the nation. Believing in the need to celebrate Maryland’s
African American heritage on a national level, former Governor
William Donald Schaefer appointed a commission to study the
museum’s impact.
Careful analysis of the state’s existing historical inventory
and tourism studies revealed that such a project was long
overdue. Important historical sites, objects and oral histories
were at risk of being lost forever.
In addition, tourism statistics revealed that African Americans
are the largest minority population in the United States and
Maryland, annually spending $25 billion on tourism. The Maryland
Office of Tourism and Development stressed that, “The
new African American museum is a worthwhile investment. The
investment will not only promote African American heritage
in Maryland, but will benefit and enhance the state tourism
industry.” Projected to generate $9.5 million in direct
spending to the state, the museum expects nearly 130,000 annual
visitors long term.
In 1998, the commission became the Maryland African American
Museum Corporation, a 501(c)(3) organization. With the leadership
of Governor Parris N. Glendening and Delegate Howard “Pete”
Rawlings, the state legislature provided $30 million toward
the construction of the museum, as well as 50 percent of the
museum’s long-term operating budget. In addition, the
museum has also been named a Smithsonian Affiliate, providing
access to priceless collections, programs, membership and
other benefits.
With interactive permanent exhibitions, exciting changing
exhibitions, engaging programming, the museum is poised to
become a major regional attraction.
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