Collection Name
About
The Benjamin Banneker Apartment complex on Frederick Street in Cumberland was constructed during 1952-1953. In a Cumberland newspaper article from March 11, 1953, and just prior to its opening, it is simply referred to as the, "colored" housing project. It was eventually named for the Maryland born African-American mathematician and astronomer, Benjamin Banneker (1731-1806).
These photographs depict the 30-unit apartment complex shortly after it opened, and during its razing in August 2007.
In Spring 2011 a new Cumberland Housing Authority project, Banneker Gardens, opened on this site.
Photograph of the Benjamin Banneker Apartment building courtesy of the City of Cumberland. The August 2, 2007 depiction of its razing is by Albert L. Feldstein.