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The African American Monument in Southern Maryland
The African American Monument in Southern Maryland
The monument, a project of Unified Committee for Afro-American Contributions of St. Mary's County, was dedicated on July 29, 2000. Its purpose is to serve as an external reminder of the contributions of African Americans to the growth and development of St. Mary's County. The symbolism of the monument evolved from a community of people who persevered to make a dream a reality.
The Eternal Flame
The Eternal Flame
At the top of the monument is an eternal flame. A continuous beacon commemorating the accomplishments of African Americans in St. Mary's County: past, present, and future.
The Plaques
The Plaques
There are six pedestals with bronze plaques surrounding the monument. The plaques honor African American contributions in the areas of religion, farming, trades, domestic service, education, business, industry, community service, arts, entertainment, health, sports, government, politics, law enforcement, military service, and technology.
Rough Side of the Mountain
Rough Side of the Mountain
Gospel music is a form of African American religious music. The word gospel means "good news", and gospel songs often praise God or Jesus. Many gospel touch on serious topics, such as the struggles of African Americans in US history.
The choice of natural stone was inspired by the hymn "Rough Side of the Mountain" by Reverend Faircloth "F.C." Barnes.
Watch the video to see a performance of this hymn and note the strong emotions these performers convey.
The stones and the shape of the monument represent the difficult struggles African Americans endured in their lives, "climbing the rough side of the mountain" to get to the other side.
The stones in all sizes and shapes represent the diverse accomplishments of all people...rich and poor, known and unknown.
Maryland State Curriculum
5th Grade, Unit 3 Contesting, Upholding, and Redefining Freedom
Analyzing methods used by individuals and/or groups throughout the 20th century to contribute to the advancement of Civil Rights for all people
Exploring how federal law, Constitutional amendments and the Supreme Court have extended and protected Civil Rights
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