Wilsontown, a small Black community in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, dating back to the 1800s, is gaining recognition for its unique history. Founded by Quaker Rachel Tyson and African-American brothers John, Dennis, and Isaiah Wilson, the community was a place of cooperation and shared resources. Lillian Rollins, a lifelong resident, shares stories of a close-knit community centered around St. John A.M.E. Zion Church. Janis Randall, a member of the Odenton Heritage Society, researched Wilsontown's history, uncovering connections to Quaker abolitionism and the possibility of its role as a stop on the Underground Railroad. The community's story is now being showcased through an exhibit at the Odenton Heritage Society Museum.
BALTIMORE - A small Black community in Anne Arundel County goes back to the 1800s. Wilsontown, in Odenton, was where Quakers and freed slaves worked and lived together. However, its historical and cultural significance wasn't publicly recognized until recently. Community leaders are working to preserve the community's unique story.Growing up in WilsontownLillian Rollins was born and raised in Wilsontown, a small community at the end of Conway Road in Odenton.
The congregation recently celebrated its 155th year.'I feel I've come from a rich heritage,' Rollins said.However, Rollins said their heritage was often overlooked.'To be honest with you, I believe it has to do with race,' Rollins said.Preserving the rich historyJanis Randall started researching Wilsontown when she moved to Odenton because she was curious about its Quaker connection and ties to her late husband's Quaker roots.
HISTORY COMMUNITY AFRICAN AMERICAN QUAKERS UNDERGROUND RAILROAD
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