Family Preserves Historic Dowden Chapel and Cemetery, Believed to Be Underground Railroad Stop

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The Dowden Chapel and Cemetery in Nottingham, Maryland have been preserved by the Harvey family for generations. The chapel, believed to have been built around 1849, was once a stop on the Underground Railroad and later served as a school for Black children. James L. Harvey Jr., the current caretaker, is dedicated to sharing the property's rich history with visitors.

Why it matters

The Dowden Chapel and Cemetery represent an important piece of African American history in Maryland. As one of the few remaining Underground Railroad sites and early Black schools, the property provides insight into the struggles and resilience of the local community during the era of slavery and segregation.

The details

The Dowden Chapel and Cemetery feature original 19th century architecture, including the chapel's walls and ceilings. Several of Harvey's family members are buried in the cemetery, alongside dozens of other free and formerly enslaved Black people. The chapel is believed to have had a hidden room under the pulpit where escaped enslaved people could hide. After the abolition of slavery, the chapel became a school where Harvey's grandmother taught.

• The chapel is believed to have been built around 1849.
• The chapel served as a school for Black children after the abolition of slavery.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Baltimore County Councilman David Marks and Senator Carl Jackson are working to help the Harvey family preserve the Dowden Chapel and Cemetery for future generations.