Provided through OPENAIR-MARKET NET
We are a non-profit organization dedicated to the support and preservation of Baltimore's horse-cart vendors [Arabbers] and functional horse-cart vending [Arabbing]. The Arabber Preservation Society was created in March of 1994, initially to help the Retreat Street stable comply with city building codes.
We recognize arabbing as an African-American folk tradition; an economically viable system and a method of apprenticeship completely unique to Baltimore. In recent years some of our last stables and Arabbers have not been able to survive. Our society is committed to supporting the rights of Arabbers and truth in media representation. We are dedicated to helping them continue their vital and autonomous economy without interfering with their self sufficiency and tradition.
March 1994-A.P.S. formed after Retreat St. stable condemned.
Repairs begun at Retreat stable.
Opposition voiced to City Council Bill #753 proposing a 1000% increase ($10 to $100) in horse-driving licences
Bill #753 overruled
Repairs completed at Retreat stable-Feb. '95.
Retreat stable reopened March '95.
Fund raiser May '95.
Farrier (blacksmith) program initiated June '95.
Farrier apprenticeship program begun. A grant for the first blacksmith students to attend a farrier college procured.
Meetings with Baltimore City Animal Control on-going.
- Verified health and humane treatment of all animals used in this craft.
- Weekly inspections initiated.
Meetings with Housing and Community Development to discuss the role of Arabbers in Sandtown/Winchester
Whatcoat St. stable ordered to close by the city October '95 (90 day removal notice)
Meeting held with Mayor Kurt Schmoke Nov.'95
Relocate Whatcoat St. stable
Documentary film project to begin.
Access maintanance needed at three remaining stables
- Architects report
- Reroof three stables
Design new stable facility for Laurens and Fremont avenues.
Initiate inner-city large animal husbandry program.
May '97-'98 fund raiser
Initiate formal Arabber Apprentice Program
History display to open to the public
- At Laurens site including blacksmithing demonstrations
- Documents, tack, carts, etc.
Organize tours
- Smithsonian Institute
- Media access
National registration of remaining stables as historic sites
Steven A. Blake - President, Arabber Preservation Society, 122 S. Schroeder St., Baltimore, MD 21223.
Until the APS gets an e-mail address, you can send e-mail to them in care of OPENAIR-MARKET NET <mar@interaccess.com>.