AARCH Society Breaks Ground on African American Heritage Center in Frederick

Event to be held Tuesday March 18^th at 12:00pm

FREDERICK, Md., March 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A long-anticipated vision is becoming a reality as the African American Resources Cultural and Heritage (AARCH) Society proudly announces the groundbreaking of the African American Heritage Center. This landmark project is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history and contributions of African Americans in Frederick.

Founded in 2001 by William O. Lee, Jr., and formally established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2009 under the leadership of Board President David Key, the AARCH Society has been a driving force in collecting, preserving, and sharing the untold stories of Frederick's African American community. Through walking tours, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives, the organization has worked tirelessly to honor and uplift this essential part of local history. Now, with the construction of its dedicated facility, AARCH takes a significant step toward cementing its mission for future generations.

On Monday, February 24, 2025, Waynesboro Construction Co., Inc. officially began work on the 3,200-square-foot African American Heritage Center, located at 125 East All Saints Street in downtown Frederick. To commemorate this historic milestone, a groundbreaking ceremony will be held on-site on Tuesday, March 18, at noon. This event is free and open to the public, welcoming community members, supporters, and local leaders to witness the beginning of a new chapter in Frederick's cultural landscape.

"This milestone represents more than just bricks and mortar—it is a testament to the resilience, achievements, and enduring legacy of African Americans in Frederick and beyond," said Olivia White, Board President of the AARCH Society. "The Heritage Center will be a beacon of education, inspiration, and cultural preservation, serving as a bridge between past and future generations."

As the premier resource for African American history in Frederick, the Heritage Center will deepen understanding, foster dialogue, and celebrate the profound influence of African Americans in shaping the city's past, present, and future.

For more information about the African American Heritage Center and ways to support this transformative project, visit aarchsociety.org or contact AARCH at [email protected].

SOURCE AARCH