Winter 2025 Newsletter: The Power of Community Memory
This issue explores the history of the Grand United Order of Galilean Fishermen, highlights ongoing cemetery research through the Death Certificate Transcription Project, and shares a genealogical case study that illustrates how Laurel Cemetery records uncover forgotten Black histories. It also includes project updates and preservation resources.
What's Inside
1 | FEATURES
The Grand United Order of Galilean Fishermen
Explores the history of the Grand United Order of Galilean Fishermen, a Black mutual aid society founded in Baltimore, and highlights its connection to Laurel Cemetery through Anthony Armstrong and other influential members.
6 | RESEARCH
The Death Certificate Transcription Project
Student researchers are transcribing Baltimore death certificates to identify Laurel Cemetery burials, uncover historical trends, and expand the project’s research database while inviting community participation.
8 | PROFILES
Down the Rabbit Hole
Donna T. Hollie traces the Squirrel family’s history from Maryland to Canada and back, demonstrating how cemetery research can uncover unexpected family stories and historical migration patterns.
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Read More Issues
Winter 2026 Newsletter: Recovering Forgotten Lives
This issue celebrates a major milestone with the dedication of our historical sign at Laurel Cemetery's original Belair Road location, highlights new research uncovering thousands of names, and shares stories that connect us to the people and history of this sacred...
Spring 2024 Newsletter: Preserving the Legacy of Black Baltimore
This issue highlights the legacy of abolitionist J. Murray Ralph, ongoing efforts to document Laurel Cemetery burials through death certificate research, and the stories of United States Colored Troops interred at Laurel Cemetery. It also features preservation updates...