Chesapeake Bay African American Maritime Heritage Conference

News anchor Kai Jackson of Baltimore's WJZ-TV Channel 13 has produced a feature story about the conference. You can view the story and video here. 

Welcome Aboard!

It is our pleasure to welcome you to a special conference that continues an ongoing discussion of African American maritime life, culture, and history on the Chesapeake Bay. The goal of this community education forum is to bring together parents and students, educators, and all interested persons to inform them of issues related to African American contributions to Chesapeake Bay life. The subject is made tangible by the addition of a sailing component to complement the presentations, where you can participate in a fun and experiential way of learning.

The Mid-Atlantic region is endowed with an array of physical landscapes to study and enjoy. The traveler, mariner, student, biker, and families of the region have no trouble finding outdoor activities to engage in. From whitewater rafting in the western parts, to Bay boating in the central regions, and on to the Atlantic beaches of the coast, its maritime features constitute a vibrant part of the character of the area. The Chesapeake Bay and its family of rivers have been, and continue to be vital to the economic future of the region and the well being of its citizens.

To the African Americans who work and live near its shores, Chesapeake waterways can carry a special significance. In 1850, it had been a gateway to freedom, in 1930, a place to make an independent living. It has served black communities in leisure time and given them maritime job opportunities. Today, many African Americans are increasingly concerned with the health of their local rivers and streams, while showing a greater interest in recreational boating.  For many, the bay and its people present a history and future worthy of consideration and understanding. 

This 2-day conference will combine regional experts and their presentations with oral histories, video, and personal testimonies. The second day of this unique conference will feature sailing lessons with sailors from the Universal Sailing Club. The goal is to develop a greater understanding of the region, country, and world by viewing history through the lens of African American waterfront communities, occupations, and lifestyles on the Chesapeake Bay.