Crossings

October 5, 2001

Special embraces how African Americans contribute to the state's rich traditions through their art, history and culture. Among the contributors to the project are nationally recognized poet and scholar Nikki Giovanni, best known for her collection of Afrocentric writings, and three Maryland poets ? Lucille Clifton, a professor at St. Mary's College of Maryland; Mary Carter Smith, a Baltimore radio personality and living repository of black history; and Andrew Lunn, a self-described humanitarian with more than 30 years of public service in Maryland. Crossings details four stories that represent a sample of the cultural gems scattered throughout Maryland: On Maryland's Eastern Shore: Harriet Tubman's route to freedom is retraced Annapolis: black history is unearthed at various archeological sites Baltimore: legendary artists from the city's musical past and present are showcased Cumberland: one of the sites of the area's Underground Railroad ? Emmanuel Episcopal Church ? is explored Crossings will have a specially-designed Web site at mpt.org showcasing one of the state's founding families, the Calverts, and their home, the Riversdale Mansion in Prince George's County. Plantation life was documented by one of the plantation's residents, Adam Plummer, a former slave who left a detailed journal about his experiences at Riversdale which his daughter would later retell in a book entitled Out of the Depths or Triumph on the Cross. - Audio Master/ 16x9 widescreen/Dolby Surround