On March 18, 2025, the African American Resources Cultural and Heritage (AARCH) Society celebrated the groundbreaking of the African American Heritage Center at 125 East All Saints Street in downtown Frederick, Maryland. This milestone marks a significant step in preserving and honoring the rich history and contributions of African Americans in the region.
Founded in 2001 by William O. Lee, Jr., and established as a nonprofit in 2009 under the leadership of Board President David Key, the AARCH Society has been dedicated to collecting and sharing the untold stories of Frederick’s African American community. The new 3,200-square-foot Heritage Center will feature permanent and traveling exhibits, a multi-purpose theater, research facilities, and interactive programs aimed at educating and inspiring future generations. citeturn0search0
Community leaders, including Frederick City Mayor Michael O’Connor and County Executive Jessica Fitzwater, attended the ceremony to commend the AARCH Society’s efforts. Fitzwater highlighted the visionary leadership of the late William Lee Jr. and David Key, acknowledging their foundational roles in bringing the project to fruition.
Construction is expected to be completed by late summer or early fall of this year. The Heritage Center will serve as an institution of education and cultural preservation.
For more information or to support the project, visit the AARCH Society’s official website at aarchsociety.org or contact them via email at aarchsociety@gmail.com.
A video of the groundbreaking ceremony is available here: