by Deyane Moses
The Upton Mansion is poised to embark on a remarkable transformation as it becomes the new headquarters for Afro Charities and the AFRO American Newspapers. Erected in 1838, this historic mansion holds a distinguished place on the National Registry of Historic Places and recognition as a Baltimore City Landmark. Once a residence, it also served as the headquarters to WCAO–Maryland’s first radio station, the Baltimore Institute of Musical Arts, and the Upton School—a primary institution catering to children with diverse learning needs. Regrettably, the Upton Mansion has sat unoccupied since 2006.
Currently, Afro Charities is seeking support via the “Make History with Us” Campaign, aspiring to breathe new life into the Upton Mansion. The nonprofit organization’s vision is to revitalize the mansion, transforming it into a permanent home for the AFRO Archives and an international research center dedicated to the study of Black life.
The revitalized Upton Mansion will boast cutting-edge archival storage facilities, spacious research rooms, and state-of-the-art digitization and processing labs. Additionally, plans have been made to establish a fully-equipped broadcasting and video-casting suite. The premises will offer leasable office spaces for like-minded local organizations. On the grounds of the Upton Mansion, you’ll find an array of amenities, including a classroom, community room, gallery, conference room and rooftop access affording breathtaking views of downtown Baltimore.
As of Jan.1, the organization has garnered roughly $190,000 in contributions from generous supporters across the nation, with donations and pledges arriving daily. In order to close the deal, another $160,000 is needed.
Have you made your donation? It will play a crucial role in securing the financial backing required for the mansion’s redevelopment. We invite you to become a Groundbreaker and contribute to Afro Charities’ “Make History With Us” fundraising campaign. To make your donation, please visit Afrocharities.org/make-history-with-us.
Donations to the Afro Charities campaign will go a long way in further preserving the history that has been put on record by the AFRO for 131 years. As you consider your pledge, take a look at the AFRO pages of yesteryear, forever preserved in the archives.
