Prince George's County's First African-American Settlement (1924)
Town History
North Brentwood, Maryland has an interesting, storied history. What began as a consolation-prize land gift to Black soldiers who served in the Civil War, flourished to become PG County's first African-American settlement. Now, we're a diverse, thriving community with appreciation for our rich cultural heritage.
There's a lot of history here...
The Town began as a less than fair settlement, but has flourished to become a vibrant community
1) Randall House, the first home built in our Town, is on Rhode Island Ave.
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2) North Brentwood Elementary, built in 1944, closed after desegregation.
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3) North Brentwood AME Zion Church, built in 1920, is a registered historic landmark (along with Randall House and Sis's Tavern).
Town History:
the full story
Sis's Tavern (above in the 1950s) is symbolic of North Brentwood's heritage: a lively culture, a sense of community... and knowing how to have a good time!
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North Brentwood was the first African-American incorporated Town in Prince George's County (incorporation occurred in 1924). Its 72 acres is situated six miles northeast of the ellipse between Mt. Rainier and Hyattsville, Maryland.
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Open document with full history of North Brentwood
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Maryland Historic Trust also has interesting info about our state's African-American heritage, including PGAAMCC's work preserving the county's cultural history and contributions.
Windom Road Barrier
Why is there a metal barrier on Windom Road, near 39th Place in North Brentwood? It was erected in 1957, to segregate white Brentwood from the (equally affluent) black community of North Brentwood.
In 2017, the two towns began re-imagining the site as Windom Road Historic Barrier Park. Post-pandemic plans call for continuing to keep the street closed to traffic, and altering the barrier. It will be turned 90 degrees, lifted above the ground, and supported by a base of two sculpted hands. A DC-area artist was selected to create artwork there; and historical plaques will explain the spot’s significance and the advancement of relations between the towns.