Ruppersberger Attends Hosanna School Celebration in Edgewood

(Edgewood, MD)- Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger attended a celebration on Friday, February 10, 2006, honoring the complete restoration of the Hosanna School, the first African American School in Harford County.  The Congressman honored Ms. Christine Tolbert who spearheaded the effort to restore the building that is now being used as a living history museum and meeting center.

“Christine Tolbert breathed her passion for educating youth into the Hosanna School - the first African American school in Harford County.  For the past twenty five years, Ms. Tolbert has been working to preserve a piece of living history for future generations to enjoy.  Efforts like this are what makes our communities so great,” said Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD).   

The Tolbert Family has lived in Harford County since the 1700’s.  Ms. Tolbert grew up while schools, libraries, theatres, and restaurants were segregated.  She attended Maryland State Teachers’ College in Bowie, obtained a Master’s Degree from Loyola College in guidance and counseling, and taught in the Harford County Public School system and at Harford Community College.   

The Hosanna School is located in Darlington, Maryland, and was originally known as the Berkley School.  It was built in 1867 and was used as a school and a church.  The school closed its doors in 1946 and was transformed into a community center shortly thereafter.  The Hosanna School was placed on the National Register for Historic Places in 1991.  Visitors can currently tour the one-room schoolhouse as part of a living history museum and meeting center.}

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