Welcome to the
frederick douglass museum & Cultural center
Museum News
Greg Gwaltney began coming to Venice Beach as a young boy.
His grandfather's love and attention is one thing that he will cherish forever.
In his Porch Story Mr. Gwaltney shares family photos and tells the story of how he came to live full time in Venice Beach.
Haley George Douglass was the grandson of Frederick Douglass, an educator, and the first mayor of Highland Beach, Maryland.
But, before he was mayor, he was part of a delegation that won incorporation of the town. In 1922 Highland Beach became the first Afircan American town in the state of Maryland.
our
mission
We are committed to promoting a greater understanding and appreciation of the life and work of Frederick Douglass and his family. In addition, the museum seeks to identify, document, and preserve the social and cultural histories of Highland Beach and Venice Beach.
Through dedicated all-volunteer teams of the board of directors and museum docents, we strive to make these resources available for information and research. Click here to Contact Us.
OUR
STORIES
This summer community on the bay was founded in 1893 by Charles Remond Douglass, the youngest son of Frederick Douglass.
Its rich history is recalled by long-time residents. To see these videotaped "Porch Stories" and to learn more about the founding of Highland Beach and Venice Beach, Click Here.
THE
COLLECTION
The collection includes items from Frederick Douglass' estate, the Douglass family who enjoyed summers on the bay, and from families in Highland Beach and Venice Beach. See the Collection.
current
initiatives
The FDMCC is currently videotaping a series of stories of life at "the Beach." Taped on the porches of the museum or the resident's home, these recollections from long-time citizens offer a unique view of two very special communities, Highland Beach and Venice Beach.