Welcome to the Historic Baltimore School, a cornerstone of the African American community in Cramerton, North Carolina. This school, built in the late 1920s by Stuart Cramer, served as an educational institution for the children of African American workers at Cramer Mills and Cramer’s dairy farm and orchards. For decades, it was more than just a place of learning; it was a community hub, a theater, and a cultural center for local residents.
The school’s significance extends beyond its role in education. During a time when African Americans faced significant segregation and discrimination, the Baltimore School offered a sanctuary—a place where children could learn and celebrate their heritage. Each week, movie reels would be projected on a screen inside the school, and when the weather permitted, the screen was placed outside to create a community gathering, allowing families to enjoy films together.
In 2003, when the building faced the threat of being used for a controlled burn by the local fire department, Fred Glenn, whose mother and aunt attended the school, purchased it to preserve its legacy. His efforts to save the building highlight its importance to those who grew up in its shadow. In 2013, the school was placed on the National Registry of Historic Places Study List, and in 2020, it received historic designation from the Gaston County Historic Preservation Commission.
Today, the Baltimore Village School, Inc., a nonprofit organization led by the Glenn family, is working to restore the school as a community center and museum. The goal is to honor the history of the Baltimore Village neighborhood and the contributions of African Americans to Cramerton and Gaston County. This site stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of a community that thrived despite adversity.
