Mission

The Maryland Women’s Heritage Center recognizes, documents and celebrates the contributions of Maryland women, past and present, to our social, political and economic order. By doing so, we champion opportunities and equality for women and girls.


About Us

The Maryland Women’s Heritage Center’s staff, Board of Directors and volunteers from around the state “Add HERStory to history to tell OURstory.”

We do this with a combination of exhibits, events and online features that pay tribute to Maryland women’s contributions in education, politics, science, community activism, the arts, the military, business and other areas. We stress inclusivity and proactively seek untold stories. We strive to be role models to our population of young women by embracing and supporting their world experiences.

  • Exhibit space and meeting venue:  After operating virtually since 2017, MWHC moved into the historic Marian House/Woman’s Industrial Exchange (WIE) in December 2020 at the invitation of Marian House. Founded in 1880, WIE helped craftswomen discreetly earn a living and operated there in various forms until June 2020. Both the landlord, Marian House, and MWHC serve women and now carry the WIE’s spirit into the future. We are proud to be part Baltimore’s historic Mt. Vernon neighborhood and of our presence in the Baltimore National Heritage Area. At this time, our exhibit space is open by appointment or for special events. Contact the executive director at [email protected].
  • Board of Directors: The leadership of the Maryland Women’s Heritage Center includes Maryland business, civic, educational and political leaders who serve on the Center’s Executive Board and Board of Directors. Our leaders come from throughout the state and region and include those from women’s organizations, local commissions for women and various organizations for women and girls. Local historical sites and networks also provide ongoing guidance and support.
  • Beginnings: MWHC is an outgrowth of the Maryland Women’s History Project that began in 1980 as a collaborative venture between the Maryland Commission for Women and the Maryland State Department of Education’s Equity Assurance and Compliance Office.

Our Pledge

In recent years, many have turned a critical eye toward how stories of local and national history are told. The Maryland Women’s Heritage Center embraces the rich diversity upon which our country was built. We pledge to seek out, listen and preserve everyone’s story. 

 

Shawn M. Herne President, Greater Baltimore History Alliance:

“The Maryland Women’s Heritage Center is one of the most amazing organizations of its kind . . . recognizing the contributions of Maryland women from the past and celebrating the accomplishments of women in the present. We are proud that they are a part of the Greater Baltimore History Alliance and its mission to preserve Baltimore and Maryland’s history.”

Rebekah Mueller, Old Mill High School student and recipient of 2020-2021 National History Day Women's History Award, given by the Maryland Women's Heritage Center:

“I deeply appreciate the Maryland Women’s Heritage Center’s great goal of encouraging all people to rejoice in the achievements of women. For me, that has meant feeling excited about sharing the stories of women in history, and becoming excited about the amazing things I can do as a young woman!”

Ms. Deryn Pomeroy, Trustee, William G. Pomeroy Foundation:

The William G. Pomeroy Foundation is funding historic markers on the National Votes for Women Trail (NVWT) to commemorate the people, places and events instrumental to women’s suffrage in the United States. In Maryland, there are 10 NVWT marker sites thanks to the dedicated work of the Maryland Women’s Heritage Center. Their efforts  . . . have advanced the knowledge of women’s suffrage history in Maryland today and for future generations.” 

Katie Allston, LCSW-C, President/CEO, Marian House:

“Marian House is thrilled to partner with MWHC as they make their home in our new building. MWHC and Marian House both highlight the accomplishments of brave and accomplished Maryland women through our different yet companionable missions. This collaboration enhances both of our missions while also honoring the long history of the Women’s Industrial Exchange Building.”