Last Open Houses Set for September 20, October 4 & 18; Season Reopens Spring 2026
Drayden African American Schoolhouse Open Houses are exciting occasions for the community, showcasing not just a building, but a vibrant part of St. Mary’s County’s historical narrative. The final free open houses of 2025 will take place on Saturday, September 20, October 4, and October 18, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s an opportunity to immerse oneself in a poignant chapter of local history before the museum takes a break for the season, reopening again in April 2026.
The Drayden African American Schoolhouse stands as a magnificent testament to the African American educational experience in the region. Recognized as one of the best-preserved one-room schoolhouses in the nation, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into the educational practices and societal challenges faced by African American students up until the mid-20th century. The stories held within these walls are critical to understanding the broader historical landscape of St. Mary’s County.
Visitors during the open houses can expect a warm welcome and engaging conversations. According to Karen Stone, Manager of the St. Mary’s County Museum Division, “The Drayden African American Schoolhouse is an important piece of our county’s history, one that not many in our community know about.” The enthusiasm to share this history is bolstered by the dedicated volunteers from the Unified Committee for Afro-American Contributions (UCAC), who will be on hand to guide and narrate the rich history encapsulated in this space.
The open houses are not just about viewing a historical site; they are interactive experiences designed for all ages. Captivating stories about past students and their educational journeys will be shared, making it a rich learning experience for families, school groups, and local residents alike. Admission is free, reinforcing the commitment to making this significant historical site accessible to everyone.
For those unable to attend the open house events, special programs are available for school and tour groups upon request. Parents and educators looking to enrich their students’ understanding of local history can easily arrange visits outside of the open house hours. To schedule a private tour, interested individuals can simply contact the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum at (301) 994-1471.
The St. Mary’s County Museum Division, the organizer of this remarkable initiative, was established to collect, preserve, and interpret the diverse histories inherent to the county and the Potomac River. It operates several attractions, including the St. Clement’s Island Museum and Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, offering a fascinating exploration of regional culture and history.
For further information regarding open house dates, tours, and admission inquiries, visitors are encouraged to explore the Drayden African American Schoolhouse’s Facebook page at Facebook.com/DraydenSchool or reach out directly at (301) 994-1471. This is an enriching opportunity not to be missed—a chance to walk through history and appreciate the legacy of African American education in St. Mary’s County.
As the season’s final open houses approach, it’s a perfect time for community members and visitors alike to engage with a vital piece of history, preserving its legacy for generations to come.