4 Center Place, Dundalk, MD 21222 410.284.2331
DUNDALK-pATAPSCO nECK
HISTORICAL SOCIETY & MUSEUM, Inc.
A Little Bit About the Society
The publications program provides a continuing source of research on local history. Projects have included the publication of seven significant local histories with others in production. Publication of a monthly newsletter, which features historical articles, is another way of keeping our members aware of their heritage.
Audio Visual
Our audio visual department contains several historical slide shows, which we have produced and present to local schools and organizations. We also produce videotaped programs and have a collection of over 65 oral histories. The collection also includes microfilm of the local newspaper since its inception.
History
Founded in 1970, the Dundalk-Patapsco Neck Historical Society is an association dedicated to bringing together people who are interested in the history of our area. Founding members included Ben Womer, Irene White and Eleanor Lukanich.
The Society collects and maintains material of local history, culture, traditions and economic activities. Books, pamphlets, magazines, maps, clippings, photographs, obituaries and other materials are available for researchers, students and anyone having an interest in our history.
There is also available for any community group a small meeting room that they may use at no cost. The Society believes that they are responsible to serve the community and to encourage in any way the economic development of their
locality. It is with this in mind that the Society actively supports and participates in all local events.
The Society depends on contributions, grants, fund raisers and membership dues to meet their expenses. These are the lifeblood of the museum. All operating expense, maintenance, repair of the building, publication costs, displays and programs are dependent on this funding.
The Society is run by an all-volunteer staff.
The Patapsco Neck Heritage
The Patapsco Neck area, extending from Fort Howard to Dundalk, has a rich and intriguing heritage extending over 345 years.
The community began in 1652 with the first settlers. Over the centuries the growing communities contributed to agricultural advancements, educational reforms, religious tolerance and industrial and maritime dominance.
The area is rich in military history. The Battle of North Point in the War of 1812 successfully thwarted the attack on Baltimore. Fort Howard
was a stronghold during World War I and Camp Holabird played a significant role in both World Wars I & II.
Through programs, exhibits and the maintenance of a museum and library, the Society preserves and interprets the history and cultural heritage of the Patapsco Neck area.
The collections are housed in an historic building. It was built as the office for the Dunleer Company in 1929, as part of a planned community. It was converted into a public library in 1954 and leased to the Historical Society in 1993. The building is located in Veterans Park, part of the area that is on the National Register of Historic Places. Since its incorporation in 1970 the Society has continued the tradition of community pride and self
improvement through education and the humanities.
Libraries and Archives
The photographs and manuscripts of the archives are invaluable. Containing a collection of materials for study of the Patapsco Neck area, we have expanded our holdings
to include all of Maryland as well as a significant collection of U.S. events and personalities. Many visitors use the archive collection of newspapers,
histories, genealogies and original record books such as “Minute Books of the Grange,” “The Law & Order League,” and many others. Some items are available only at this location.
Museum
The main floor of the Historical Society building is given to displays. The permanent display is a living room of the 1800s. The larger portion of the floor is maintained as
continually changing exhibits of artifacts and photographic displays.
Knowledgeable volunteer staff is available to conduct tours and are happy to explain the origin and significance of any or all items in the collection.
A wide variety of programs also are scheduled in the Museum. Program schedules are not limited to the regular daily hours and are presented to the public free of charge.