Frederick County Public Hearing

The Maryland Lynching Truth and Reconciliation Commission (MLTRC) will hold a public hearing in Frederick County on April 13, 2024, as part of its ongoing effort to bring awareness to Maryland's history of racial violence and to foster reconciliation in the present. Research reveals that at least three Black men were lynched in Frederick County and no fewer than 38 were lynched across Maryland.

The hearing will focus on the history of lynching in Frederick County, including the killings of

• James Carroll (Point of Rocks) April 17, 1879
• John Biggus (Frederick) November 23, 1887, and
• James Bowens (Frederick) November 16, 1895

Descendants of the victims and aggressors, expert witnesses, community members, scholars, and archivists will have the opportunity to provide testimony and make recommendations for achieving racial healing. Community members are encouraged to submit their testimony to mltrc@maryland.gov or bring their written testimony to be collected at the public hearing.

HEARING DETAILS

When: Saturday, April 13, 3024

Time (in person and streaming): 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Where: Lincoln Elementary School, 200 Madison St., Frederick, MD 21701

Free parking is available in the school's main lot, behind the Earth & Space Science Laboratory, and on the street. Once parked, please enter the building through the main doors where you will be greeted.

Please register here to attend.
If you are unable to attend in person, a link to the live stream will be posted on MLTRC’s website before the hearing.