Underground Railroad history discovered at Emmarts United Methodist Church in Baltimore County

A Baltimore County community is celebrating Black History Month with a commemorative walk to honor Emmarts United Methodist Church in Windsor Mill, a historic site that once served as a refuge for enslaved people seeking freedom. Approximately two hundred community members and leaders participated in the event on Saturday morning, walking along Dogwood and Rolling Roads to pay tribute to the church's significant role in the Underground Railroad.

Attendees had the opportunity to explore the church, which has been identified as a safehouse stop on the Underground Railroad after artifacts were discovered within its walls. The walk not only allowed participants to engage with the church's history but also featured storytelling, dances, and songs that underscored the church's importance to the community and Baltimore County as a whole.

Organizers emphasized that this commemorative walk is part of a larger initiative aimed at preserving the church's legacy and the stories of the enslaved individuals it assisted. Congressman Kweisi Mfume served as the keynote speaker, and various county and state leaders joined in to present citations recognizing the church's historical significance.

Senator Chris Van Hollen highlighted the impactful work of Caleb and Susanna Emmarts, the church's founders, describing them as crucial agents of the Underground Railroad. The event was both a celebration of the church's past and a pledge to honor its future.

Ahead of the walk, WJZ's Janay Reece gained exclusive access to the church’s preserved artifacts, shedding light on the ongoing efforts by historians, the church's leadership, and the community to safeguard its rich history for future generations.