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Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum
300 Oella Ave, Catonsville, MD 21228, United States
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St
Review №1

It is an interesting location, wasnt open when I was there. What was interesting is that they were having a special event outside. They set it up social distance wise but the masks were not being used by all. They have an area for picnics. A trail with historical information.

La
Review №2

Celebrating the new Rosie the Riveter Memorial Garden installed by Girl Scouts from Troop #5916!

Ga
Review №3

Benjamin Banneker Park is a great place to while away time walking along easy to navigate trails. There are many trail you can select to walk/hike. Each one has its own interesting story.

Ju
Review №4

A wonderful heritage site and well maintained community center, childrens education center, and a grounds for trails, gardens, and historic residences.

Mi
Review №5

This is a beautiful historical area that shows so much history and culture. It is highlights the life and story of Benjamin Banneker, African American intellectual and man of many skills and accomplishments.The museum complex includes a cabin built to be authentic to the 1790s. It is a fantastic experience, with hands-on exhibits. In addition, twice a months volunteers offer demonstrations of cooking foods and methods authentic to that era. That was an incredible, amazing learning experience. And there are many more fascinating exhibits, both inside the museum and outside on the grounds.It is a magical place to learn about very interesting history, to picnic and explore, with natural playgrounds for kids. Well worth the visit, especially on a nice day.

Da
Review №6

Just went to check out the trails. Park was pretty empty

Be
Review №7

Lovely, native plants, an abundance of mature trees, and a winding story trail for the young ones. A real jewel.

sa
Review №8

Very beautiful and educational area for kids. love the story walk.

Gr
Review №9

Wow what a find, right in our old hometown. A block down the street from the JW Truth Butcher, this historical park has something for everyone, and the nicest curators Ive ever met. Cherry was a wonderful tour guide, showed us a movie, and even let us look inside the recreated example of Benjamin Bannekers last home. It was really nice to learn so much about a prolific 1740s Marylander who surveyed the southern boundary for our nations capital in 1791, fantastic! And they even have 140 acres of hiking trail, with an old paved over trolley route for a path. Park is free and the museum is free with a $3 suggested donation. They also host historical event days with fun things to do for kids.

Ma
Review №10

Nice place to take young children. I skipped the Museum because I was walking my dog. Chatted with some older couples who were enjoying touring the historical buildings. Said hello on the hiking trails to 3 50+ guys riding mountain touring bikes on the trails. Definitely will go again!

Ca
Review №11

Incredible preservation of the life of a genius. Karen and Chryse were also exceptionally knowledgeable and helpful. Wonderful visit.

Ty
Review №12

Friendly staff, some great exhibits and great price.

Sa
Review №13

Highly recommend a visit to the actual homestead of Benjamin Banneker... 142-acre of natures beauty reflecting the life of Benjamin Banneker. The Park is an excellent historical area to relax, walk and/or meet for outings. The Museum offers fascinating as well as informative exhibitions and programs. The Baltimore County Dept of Rec and Parks team and the Friends of BBHPM are very knowledgeable and always helpful.

Mo
Review №14

Who knew I lived so close to Greatness!!

Je
Review №15

Wonderful museum. Unique living history event and reenactments. Friendly staff and volunteers. Multicultural. Well worth a visit.

Be
Review №16

I enjoyed learning about Benjamin Banneker and his importance in history. Lots of neat historic items and information. The historic cabin is cool, as well as, the household items used at the time.

Ja
Review №17

I enjoy the peace and quiet. The trails are full of wildlife. The museum is awesome! Ill take this over a big theme park any day.

Ni
Review №18

This is an excellent park that hosts all kinds of wonderful events. Our favorite is the annual Colonial Fair! The museum is interesting and theres a nice little hiking trail, too.

Zi
Review №19

Great little museum

Mi
Review №20

My kids and I visited here recently and it was amazing! The replica of Benjamin Bannekers cabin is very much worth seeing, and the museum has a childrens room where they can look at some of the cool, native species of animals (reptiles and amphibians) that they keep in several aquariums. Well be going back!

Mr
Review №21

Beautiful scenery saw a deer while i was here!

Ta
Review №22

Very nice historical spot.

Da
Review №23

Very pleasant and interesting.

Pa
Review №24

This park is a hidden treasure of Benjamin Banneker an individual who has not received the recognition for the contributions he made to our country during colonial times. He lived and died in Oella, Md. His academic and practical achievements rival all others in the late 1790. Worth a visit by all who are interested in our country.

Ry
Review №25

Beautiful for a walk or trail run!

DC
Review №26

Spotted this museum and park as I drove by and came back to take a look. Its a small museum. Theres a cabin behind the museum that shows what his cabin might have looked like.The museum staff was nice, BUT placed a lot emphasis on only one of the conflicting accounts of his ancestry. Apparently, Banneker himself and his family only acknowledged his African ancestry - never claimed white ancestry. Long after his death, a biographer spoke to people who alleged that he had a white female ancestor who bought and freed his grandfather and married him. The museum emphasized the latter narrative instead of highlighting the conflicting accounts. Basically, they ignored Bannekers own account of his family history From what I saw of the exhibits, the museum focused more on his scientific achievements and only gives a nod to his efforts to advocate against slavery and racism. Also, I left wondering where his descendants are...the offspring of his siblings... Are they still in Maryland? Did/does the museum talk with them? Do they support the museum?I am really excited to go hiking in the park though. Im glad that Maryland stopped further development of the land to preserve Bannakers family land.

Jo
Review №27

Friendly volunteers and reenactors. Easy to get to and plenty of parking.

Jo
Review №28

Great historical venue as well as an unknown gem for nature lovers! Staff couldnt be nicer! Wonderful events and classes!

Da
Review №29

A reenactment of colonial Life in Central Maryland was in progress... Had an opportunity to speak with Mr Banneker... Learned much about life during the 1790s, as well as compared notes on structures found at the park to structures found on family property in London Virginia... Wonderful experience

Sa
Review №30

I was here for a race. The butterfly garden was so amazing. The bathrooms were clean. There was good parking.

Ca
Review №31

The museum is full of info and artifacts, the playground is delightful and the hiking trail is a must for all levels and nature lovers.

Da
Review №32

This is a wonderful museum and park. My family and I love everything about it. Its a great place to learn the legacy of a local historical African American who made contributions to mathematics, farming/ nature, astronomy, education and racial equality. There are lots of events at this museum that focus on each aspect of what Mr. Banneker is known for. My family loves the pollinator garden, the trails, the artifacts and evening events. I just wish they had a speakers series that spoke more about nature, astronomy and African American history similar to what the naturalists and staff offer at Oregon Ridge.

Ce
Review №33

Enjoyed learning great historical facts about Benjamin Banneker. The museum is a jewel hidden in Catonsonville, Maryland! The individuals re-inacting essential characters , (Benjamin Banneker and his sister) were marvelous. Staff friendly.

Kh
Review №34

They opened up just for our large group. We had to be split into three groups. Each group got to do everything, just in a different order. Our tour consisted of an informational (funny for the kids) DVD, learning about the chores and responsibilities Benjamin Banneker had, witnessing artifacts that were found on his grounds that gave us clues about how he lived, seeing a replica of his clock (the original was burned in his home), and entering his mock house. Theres also a kids play room and a wooden playground outside. The staff was gracious and very accommodating. The restrooms were clean. And, at the end of the tour, the kids received bracelets as a souvenir.

Th
Review №35

Very nice

Ma
Review №36

Was here for an event so I cant speak to how the site is normally. Would have to visit a second time before confirming whether or not it deserves five stars.

Je
Review №37

The gentleman who played Benjamin was really good. He kept the kids engaged and never bored.

Ev
Review №38

Awesome location for our family reunion

Ga
Review №39

Wonderful park

Ka
Review №40

I suggest to anyone who is swinging by Ellicott City to go here. Special place, rich in history, very moving and great place for children. Very tactile historical and educational experience in particular for kids.

Je
Review №41

This is a very nice museum and park that combines the history of the truly remarkable Benjamin Banneker with natural history exhibits and activities. The museum displays are very well done and the outside grounds have a number of talks to explore the area. Trails also connect to the #9 trolley trail which runs down to historic Ellicott City.

Ja
Review №42

Great place for some history that you might not have learned anywhere else

Je
Review №43

Wonderful place for photos

St
Review №44

Easy access, clean rest rooms, perfect starting point for running the Trolley Trail

ka
Review №45

Inspiring information and programs.

Ch
Review №46

Its a very interesting park an lots of places to explore

Er
Review №47

A great park that no one knows about. Benjamin Bannekers story is an inspiration that everyone should appreciate.

Ty
Review №48

Great hiking on peaceful trails.

Gu
Review №49

Its an awesome place to learn about the life and achievements of African-American mathematician, astronomer, architect, and inventor Benjamin Banneker. Also there is a beautiful 142 acre park for walks, hikes, and picnics too! What a great wonderful place to visit, learn, relax, and have fun!

Je
Review №50

Had a great time, plan to go back for Colonial Market Fair June 8-9

jo
Review №51

Extremely beautiful park, lots of history and educational structures. Plenty to see with dence trails full of deer. My favorite park by far and i try to explore them all.

Ro
Review №52

Great museum and nature center dedicated to the astounding mind of a self taught scientist. A black man, born in a log cabin in the mid 18th century in Oella, MD, he went on to help in the layout of DC, and shared scientific dialog with Thomas Jefferson and other great contemporary minds. Its unfortunate that his story hasnt been more prominent. His final resting place still unknown.Great activities and day camps.

lo
Review №53

Very nice park however staff not very friendly

Ch
Review №54

Excellent historic site. Learned many fascinating facts about Banneker and his life. Extremely well laid out and free with very friendly and helpful staff. Highly recommended.

Pa
Review №55

Young family and little kid friendly. Well knowledged and helpful people very willing to teach. Trails and museum a must see. Couldnt love this place more.

li
Review №56

What a legacy. You are able to walk in his footsteps. The museum is located on the grounds that Mr. Banneker lived and died on. They city that he lived in is nearby. The staff and volunteers are very committee to keeping this legacy alive. Great visit for small children.

To
Review №57

Is a wonderful place to visit the school or the parents need to take their children there let then learn more about history

ja
Review №58

Nice hiking trails

An
Review №59

I learned about Benjamin Banneker. Authentic displays.

Li
Review №60

Great little museum. And the staff is so friendly and knowledgeable.

ro
Review №61

Made only in Heaven!

Ha
Review №62

Small Museum dedicated to a little-known African American scientist.

An
Review №63

Very clean place. Staff are great, full of knowledge. Good family place, its a must visit place in catonsville, md

Al
Review №64

Nice quiet area for kids to play, fun little trails for kids and families to walk on, and a nice historical display inside!

Do
Review №65

I had a wonderful time and hope others enjoy it as well

Ha
Review №66

Great Museum and a great park.

Do
Review №67

Great place to spend a Sunday afternoon. They hold a lot of interesting events as well.

za
Review №68

Ol man Bannekers cabin

pa
Review №69

Had an awesome time there. Very informative. Nicely decorated! Monthly events are always scheduled. Grounds are well kept. There is a hiking trail in the rear of the museum as well as outdoor exhibits!

La
Review №70

Great place to visit and educational. I love the site and also great for events.

Li
Review №71

The affair was nice but was very impressed but the facility

Ch
Review №72

My daughter went to the day camp here last week. She enjoyed it!

El
Review №73

Being on the site where one of the greatest people in the US was born, raised and died.

To
Review №74

There are not a lot of original artifacts, but the info provided is fascinating. Theres a lot to do here besides the Bannker-related history.

Lo
Review №75

Fascinating museum. Appeals to wide range of ages. Nice collection and notations

Ka
Review №76

There was a yard sale there that day.

Pa
Review №77

It is great place to visit.

Be
Review №78

Great land, nice trails, perfect for school trips and other activities

An
Review №79

Great place to visit and have a outdoor field trip

Ol
Review №80

I went for the colonial cooking demonstration and it was phenomenal

Ju
Review №81

A great wealth of history with family friendly activities. Plenty of parking.

Ev
Review №82

The park is very clean, the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. We went for a cooking demonstration. The trail system also connects to the Elicott City rail trail. Itd be nice to have a picnic here.

Da
Review №83

Great location for family outings, jazz events, educational tours, nature walks. Benjamin Banneker was a descendant of the Dogon people whose history in the Americas pre-dates the rape and pillaging of Columbus and others of his ilk.

Br
Review №84

This is a small intimate museum dedicated to the brilliant mathematician Benjamin Banneker. Very well done!

Sc
Review №85

Its never crowded and theres lots of parking. Nice hiking trails that go into the trolley trail.

Ja
Review №86

Great spot for a little hike and a lot of history.

Je
Review №87

Really interesting place with great special programs.

Ka
Review №88

It was very nice the staff was pleasantIve learned a lot of History.Of my Heritage.

Ja
Review №89

Enjoyed hiking at the park

Sa
Review №90

We had a lot of fun

Lo
Review №91

Love this place ♡

Ja
Review №92

Very nice park with trails. Never crowded!

Mi
Review №93

Beautiful trails to explore!

hi
Review №94

Kids lived it. Staff were very helpful

Jo
Review №95

Nice little park that my daughters found playing Pokémon Go as I drove down Frederick road one afternoon. Very quite with some history as well. Not very large park But nice nonetheless.

Mr
Review №96

Nice well-marked hiking trails, easy to navigate.

Er
Review №97

Beautiful nature trails, and interesting educational signage.

Al
Review №98

Awesome place

Ke
Review №99

Interesting person and beautiful scenery.

Jo
Review №100

Pretty quiet little place. Nice park in area. Staff is very nice.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:300 Oella Ave, Catonsville, MD 21228, United States
  • Site:http://friendsofbenjaminbanneker.com/
  • Phone:+1 410-887-1081
Categories
  • Museum
  • Park
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:10am–4pm
  • Tuesday:10am–4pm
  • Wednesday:10am–4pm
  • Thursday:10am–4pm
  • Friday:12–4pm
  • Saturday:Closed
  • Sunday:10am–4pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
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