Submitted by Lisa Cox
During my life, the beauty of Baltimore’s Sharp-Leadenhall neighborhood has always struck me. Sharp-Leadenhall is a historical African-American neighborhood, whose people are full of pride for the community.
The neighborhood consists of numerous streets – Hanover Street, Hamburg Street and the one that I'm most familiar: Bevan Street.
Bevan Street residents were always unique because of their interest in creating a clean environment for their neighbors and children. They always found ways of beautifying the block whether it was painting the curbs or making flowers pots out of tires.
As a child growing up on this block, I can remember the three ambassadors who stood out the most because of their dedication: Ms. Helen, Ms. Trece and Ms. Madlene. These ladies took a great deal of pride and ownership of this block. At times soft-spoken, these ladies instilled in us the value of being our "Brother’s Keeper." They would have block parties, and every neighbor would bring his or her famous dish. Although Ms. Trece was determined not to be displaced, our entire block had to relocate because of a highway project.
Many of our original families were displaced from Sharp-Leadenhall. Yes, we gained some things, but they are no where near the things or memories that we have to cherish.
As I became an adult and had children of my own, I moved back to Bevan Street and decided to make a difference. I recruited some volunteers from Bevan Street and started a Clean & Green Block project. I've been showing residents what it means to become a healthy family. My goal for this project is to educate the community and its children in making a difference within themselves and their community.
We've made a difference by reducing some of the obesity on our block by creating and healthy approach, walking around the block or even hosting a block workout session. We are also educating each other about other health issues. Through this project we entered the Baltimore’s “Afro Clean Block Campaign,” and Bevan Street won.
We are blessed to receive an upgraded mural located at 116 West Hamburg Street and improvement of two empty lots with greenery, which will take place September 13, 2008, thanks to our fine Baltimore City Mayor, Shelia Dixon.
This is just the beginning of a new horizon for Bevan Street and also the Sharp-Leadenhall neighborhood.
Photo Caption: Baltimore street scene. (Photo Courtesy of bobjagendorf via Flickr)
