A New Chapter in Frederick’s History
After years of dedication, research, and community collaboration, the African American Resources Cultural and Heritage Society (AARCH) is proud to open the doors to the African American Heritage Center in the heart of Frederick.
More than a building, the Heritage Center is a living legacy—a place to honor the stories, celebrate the achievements, and preserve the rich African American history and culture of Frederick and beyond. Through exhibits, educational programs, cultural events, and community gatherings, the Center will inspire reflection, learning, and connection for generations to come.
Help us celebrate this historic milestone—and be part of bringing this vision to life. Join us for the Grand Opening on October 17 at 2:00pm and experience three special events leading up to this extraordinary occasion. Together, we can walk, rise, and remember: Where History Comes Home.
Fundraising Events
Morgan State University Choir Concert | Saturday, September 19 | 7:00PM
Experience the powerful harmonies and uplifting spirit of the renowned Morgan State University Choir, under the direction of Dr. Eric Conway, in a soul-stirring evening of gospel music, faith, and celebration. This signature AARCH fundraiser brings our community together while supporting the African American Heritage Center and its mission of faith, community, and cultural preservation.
Luther Re-Lives: A Night to Remember | Sunday, October 11 | 7:30PM
Celebrate the timeless music of Luther Vandross with Luther Re-Lives, featuring William “Smooth” Wardlaw, a live band, and powerhouse vocalists in an electrifying evening of music and entertainment. Every ticket supports AARCH’s mission to preserve, celebrate, and share the rich African American history and culture of Frederick County.
Telling Our Story
In May 1913, Edward Mitchell Johnson – a trustee of Asbury United Methodist Church on All Saints Street, was the main plaintiff in a class-action lawsuit against ‘the grandfather clause,’ which denied African Americans the right to vote unless their grandfather had voted prior to 1869. This case helped lay the groundwork for the decades of work ahead to secure African Americans’ full rights as citizens granted under the 14th amendment following the Civil War.
Edward Mitchell Johnson was a community leader and activist in many ways – founding the first Black-owned newspaper in Western Maryland, which he printed from a press in his kitchen.
His story is inspiring – as are hundreds of others collected, preserved, and shared by the African American Resources Cultural Heritage (AARCH) Society.
“Until the story of the hunt is told by the lion, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter.”
– African Proverb
Empowering Understanding
AARCH Society is proud to serve community members and visitors of all ages and cultural backgrounds who are interested in learning about and sharing their stories about African American history and heritage in Frederick County.
Through our programs and services, AARCH Society touches:
- People of all backgrounds who are interested in the rich dimensions of the African American experience
- Teachers and educators in Frederick County and beyond
- Academics, scholars, and researchers
- Students from kindergarten through college
- Community partners in local business, historical, cultural, social, and religious organizations
- Tourists and visitors to Frederick County
