ABOUT BENJAMIN BANNEKER
Benjamin Banneker (November 9, 1731 – October 19, 1806) was a free African-American almanac author, surveyor, landowner and farmer who had knowledge of mathematics and natural history. Born in Baltimore County, Maryland, to a free African-American woman and a former slave, Banneker had little or no formal education and was largely self-taught, and became known as member of a group led by Major Andrew Ellicott that surveyed the original borders of the District of Columbia, the federal capital district of the United States.
THE MUSEUM
Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum is a 142-acre site dedicated to telling the inspiring story of the life and times of Benjamin Banneker, often considered the first African-American man of science. The museum’s exhibits chronicle Banneker’s contributions as a largely self-taught mathematician, astronomer, almanac writer, surveyor, abolition advocate and naturalist during the late 1700s.Â
Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum has something for everyone whether their interest is history, astronomy, cultural activities, hiking or nature and conservation. The Banneker Historical Park and Museum preserves the cultural and natural history of the colonial era by offering special programs in colonial history and extensive environmental conservation, particularly for American native plants.
The current Director of the Museum and Park is Naturalist Melanie D. Dengler.
OUR MISSION AND VISION
Our mission is to engage and inspire our visitors and community by connecting them to Benjamin Banneker's life, contributions, and his land.
Our vision is that by the year 2025 we will:
Become a widely recognized resource for Banneker's living history and its significance to our community.
Create a unified and enriching experience for Park and Museum visitors for recreation, education, and enjoyment.
Become a hub for developing future scientists, historians, and stewards of the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Successfully partner with other groups to attract resources to fulfill our mission.