Through the work of the Frederick Remembrance Memorial Coalition and partners, we confront this painful history with honesty by recognizing its lasting impact in the inequities and divisions that persist, while reaffirming our responsibility to learn, heal, reflect, and move forward together.
A woman stands outdoors at a lectern bearing the seal of the City of Frederick, reading from a stack of papers into a microphone. She wears glasses and a green-and-white shirt with a printed portrait on it. Behind her are leafy trees, a low stone wall, and a red brick building featuring a large mural of a trumpet player. A water bottle and a bag rest on the wall beside the lectern, and parked cars and storefronts are visible in the background.
A middle-aged man stands outdoors at a lectern, speaking into a handheld microphone. He wears dark sunglasses, a light gray and white plaid short-sleeve button-up shirt, and dark trousers. He appears focused, looking down at notes as he speaks. The lectern bears a circular seal for City of Frederick, featuring illustrated church spires and the text “Founded 1745.” An unused microphone stand is positioned to his left. The setting is a sunny day in a landscaped public area, with green trees, shrubs, and a stone wall behind him. On the right side, a water bottle and a bag rest on the stone ledge. In the background, a large mural painted on the side of a brick building depicts a person holding a trumpet.
A blue and gold historical marker titled “The Lynchings of James Carroll, John Biggus, and James Bowens” stands outdoors under a partly cloudy sky and leafy trees. The sign reads: COMMUNITY REMEMBRANCE PROJECT FREDERICK THE LYNCHINGS OF JAMES CARROLL, JOHN BIGGUS, AND JAMES BOWENS Three Black men were victims of racial terror lynching in Frederick County between 1879 and 1895. Each was abducted following reports of attacks against local white women. On April 17, 1879, a mob of more than 70 white people lynched 24-year-old James Carroll. Mr. Carroll was on a train from Washington, D.C., to Frederick in police custody when he was seized by the mob. After he was forced off the train, the mob used a rope it placed around Mr. Carroll’s neck to drag him through a muddy embankment to the edge of nearby woods in Point of Rocks, where it hanged him. On November 23, 1887, John Biggus, a 19-year-old Black teen, was lynched by a mob of 100 or more white men. After seizing Mr. Biggus from the Frederick jail, the mob took him to a nearby field and killed him as he professed his innocence. Mr. Biggus was shot three times and hanged. On November 17, 1895, a mob of approximately 300 white men lynched a young Black man, James Bowens, after he was seized from the Frederick jail. As Mr. Bowens was hanged, the mob fired a gunshot into his head. A member of the mob made a brief speech afterwards, stating they had lynched Mr. Bowens “to teach men of his class that they must let the white women of Frederick county alone or suffer the consequences.” No one was held accountable for the lynchings of James Carroll, John Biggus, or James Bowens. EQUAL JUSTICE INITIATIVE FREDERICK REMEMBRANCE MEMORIAL COALITION 2026
Jessica Fitzwater stands outdoors at a lectern with the seal of the City of Frederick, speaking into a handheld microphone while gesturing with her free hand. She wears glasses, a black top, and patterned black pants. Behind her are leafy trees, a low stone wall with a water bottle and books resting on it, and a red brick building featuring a large mural of a trumpet player. A few people and parked vehicles are visible in the background.
This weekend, a new marker was unveiled acknowledging the lives of Mr. James Carroll, Mr. John Biggus, and Mr. James Bowen, who were victims of racial terror lynchings in Frederick County. These acts spread fear throughout African-American communities; no one was held accountable for the lynchings.
Four award recipients sit on chairs on a small stage, each holding a framed certificate and smiling toward the camera. They are dressed in a mix of business and semi-formal attire, including a suit, a patterned dress, and casual dress clothing. The room has a simple setup with a wood floor, plain light-colored wall, and ceiling panels overhead.
A large group of students and adults stand together on a small stage, posing for a photo at an awards ceremony. Several students in the front row hold framed certificates, dressed in semi-formal attire such as dresses, skirts, and button-down shirts. County employees and state officials stand behind them in professional clothing. The room features a wood floor, neutral walls, ceiling panels, and a cluster of black, white, and gold balloons off to the side.
Group photo of several people posed indoors in two rows on a wooden floor. The front row includes individuals seated on chairs, with two people holding certificates. The back row consists of additional people standing behind them. The group is dressed in formal and semi-formal attire, and the background features a light-colored wall and a ceiling with fluorescent lighting.
Jessica Fitzwater, in a blue blazer and glassess stands behind a wooden lectern, speaking into a microphone and clapping. Black, white, and gold balloons are arranged behind her.
Last week, the Frederick County Human Relations Commission hosted its Human Rights Achievement Awards Banquet, celebrating people making Frederick stronger and more inclusive. Speaker Dr. Olivia White reminded us progress requires participation. Congrats to all 2026 honorees & student award winners!
Three people stand smiling behind a table at a school event. Two wear traditional embroidered tops, and one wears a teal blazer. The table displays flyers, a small blue-and-white flag, and a sign with QR codes promoting social media, as well as materials about a STEM-focused organization. Large windows behind them show a brick school building outside.
An indoor event space is filled with multiple tables and groups of people interacting. In the foreground, a decorated table with a black lace cloth displays themed items such as candles, potion‑style bottles, colorful hair extensions, and a decorative sign that reads 'MAGIC.' Behind the table, several people are seated while others braid or style their hair with brightly colored extensions. Additional attendees stand and walk around the room, and more tables with displays can be seen in the background. Large windows along the left wall allow natural light into the space.
A group of students in matching black and gold “Cadets” cheerleader uniforms perform a synchronized dance routine in a school cafeteria or atrium. They are spaced in formation, mid-performance, with onlookers and tables set up along the sides of the room.
A woman in a teal blazer stands smiling beside a display of student projects at a school event. The tri-fold boards feature information about countries including Mexico, Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Bolivia, with photos, facts, and flags. Behind her, a colorful banner reads “Celebrate Black History Month,” and other attendees are visible in the background.
I was glad to attend International Night at Frederick High School and see students, organizations, and familiar departments come together to celebrate multiculturalism and diversity. Equally inspiring was the energy and enthusiasm of these young people as they showcased different cultures.
Two people stand together in front of a wall mural featuring military-themed artwork, including helicopters, a soldier in silhouette, and a large stylized American flag. One person is wearing a dark suit jacket with a striped tie, and the other is wearing a dark outfit and glasses. Other attendees and additional artwork are visible in the background.
People stand inside a room featuring a large, colorful mural that spans an entire wall. The mural includes scenes of military helicopters, a soldier in profile, two silhouetted figures standing before a large American flag, and a service member kneeling beside a dog. An eagle is depicted soaring in a blue sky on the right side of the mural, and buildings resembling historic structures appear in the background.
Four individuals stand side by side in front of a light-colored curtain backdrop. Two individuals in the center are holding official-looking certificates. One certificate is printed on yellow paper with a decorative border, and the other is on white paper with an emblem and text. The individuals are dressed in a mix of professional and semi-professional attire, including a green collared shirt, a patterned jacket, a light-colored top, and a blue blazer.
Congratulations to Reforge on their Grand Opening, first responder plaque dedication, and mural unveiling at VSC at Goodwill. Reforge is committed to equipping veterans and first responders with the tools, support, and community they need to rebuild their lives and drive lasting, positive change.
A group of seven adults stands on the steps of a red-brick government building with white columns, posing for a photo. At the center, a woman in a teal blazer and glasses holds an official proclamation document, smiling, while others stand closely beside her in business and business-casual attire. The group is gathered for a formal recognition.
April is Fair Housing Month, a time for Frederick County to reaffirm its commitment to equal housing access and preventing discrimination. We’re removing barriers, investing in affordable housing, and partnering with our community to expand homeownership opportunities and help everyone thrive.
On a baseball field, a person stands on the grass near the infield holding a baseball in one hand and wearing a baseball glove on the other. The person is wearing a black T-shirt with the text 'FREDERICK KEYS BASEBALL' and jeans, along with a baseball cap. Behind the person, a large mascot in an orange-and-white uniform stands with arms raised in an enthusiastic pose.
Person standing on a baseball field holding a baseball in one hand and wearing a glove on the other, with a team dog mascot posing energetically behind them. The stadium field, scoreboard, and cloudy sky are visible in the background.
Two people stand together on the grass near the infield of a baseball stadium at dusk. One person is wearing a pinstripe jacket and light-colored shirt, while the other is wearing a black 'Frederick Keys Baseball' T-shirt, jeans, and a baseball cap. In the background, the team dog mascot in a white and orange uniform stands on the field. The sky is filled with dramatic blue clouds, and outfield advertisements are visible behind the field.
Large crowd gathered in stadium seats during a nighttime baseball game. The field is brightly lit by tall stadium lights, with players standing near the infield. Spectators fill the stands, some standing and facing the field. The sky is dark with scattered clouds, and various advertisements and buildings are visible around the ballpark.
Frederick showed up in a big way for Opening Day! ⚾️ Honored to throw one of the first pitches as the Frederick Keys reconnect with the Major League pipeline after five years and begin their first season as the Orioles’ High-A affiliate. Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate!
A person in a white patterned dress stands at a lectern in a meeting room, speaking into a microphone. A projection screen behind the podium displays a slide titled “Special Presentation – Frederick County Executive – Jessica Fitzwater.” Another person stands to the side near a table with audiovisual equipment, and various presentation materials are set up around the room.
Two people stand side by side in an indoor hallway. One person is holding a walker and wearing a striped long-sleeve shirt with dark pants and a name badge. The other person is wearing a patterned sleeveless dress and glasses. They are standing close together and facing the camera.
A person sits at a table next to an older woman in a room set up for an event. The table is covered with a light-colored tablecloth and displays binders, papers, and small items. The older woman is wearing a floral-patterned top and is seated in a chair beside the person wearing a patterned dress and a dark jacket. In the background, several people stand and talk near tables, and a cluster of red and white balloons is visible.
Several people are gathered in a community room with chairs arranged in rows. In the center, one person wearing a suit and tie stands next to another person in a patterned dress and dark jacket. The person in the suit is holding up a framed document or certificate. Other individuals are seated nearby, and one person stands with arms crossed against the wall. The background includes bulletin boards, plaques, and part of a projected presentation screen.
I joined the Friends in Frederick Parkinson’s Disease Support Group to celebrate their 30th anniversary. I proclaimed April 2026 as Parkinson’s Awareness Month in Frederick County. I also presented a certificate to Mary Kraft in honor of John Kraft, who founded the group and his lasting impact.
Confused about @fredcogovmd.bsky.social FY27 budget lingo? We can explain: youtu.be/EXJwkCKbwz0?...
Today, I unveiled a County budget that prioritizes public schools, helps working families and seniors, and invests in our most vulnerable residents without raising taxes. Strong schools are my top priority, and we are fully funding the Board of Education's budget request: youtu.be/_4KIywiCbMw
A person standing in a garage with a red bird on her shoulder.
A person smiling with a possum in their hand.
It’s Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week! 🐾 We celebrate and thank our incredible Animal Control Officers for the compassion, dedication, and courage they bring to our community every single day.
A communications center with multiple computer workstations displaying maps, data panels, and information screens. One person sits at a desk with several monitors showing detailed maps and text. Another person stands nearby, wearing a dark shirt and light-colored pants, with an ID badge clipped at the waist. In the background, another individual stands near a large window and additional screens mounted on the wall, including one showing a traffic map. The room has a tiled ceiling, overhead lighting, and various papers and decorations posted around the workstation area.
Four individuals stand together in front of a large banner that reads 'Thank you!!! For being the unseen heroes!' The banner features two stylized American flag graphics with gold accents. The group is indoors with string lights hanging above. One person in the center holds a framed proclamation document. All four individuals are wearing matching embroidered shirts, except one who is wearing a white shirt. They are posed in front of a window.
Large operations center with multiple rows of workstations, each equipped with several computer monitors displaying maps, data, and color‑coded information. Several people are seated or standing throughout the room. At the front, two individuals stand near a lectern while six large wall‑mounted screens behind them display red slides with white text.
This week is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week and it was great to meet with Frederick County’s 911 professionals, hear why they chose this work, and how they’re supported with mental health and stress resources. Public safety depends on their compassion and professionalism 24/7, 365.
Today is Sine Die! I had a busy day down in Annapolis meeting with various legislators and familiar faces to ensure we are advancing progress for the Frederick County community. Thank you to our state delegation for their partnership as we advocate for our shared constituents.
Two people stand together in front of a “Leadership Frederick County” banner. One person is wearing a patterned jacket and holding an award shaped like a geometric crystal with a small plaque on the base. The other person is wearing a dark jacket over a red outfit with a floral pattern. Behind them are green and blue balloons and a large silver star-shaped balloon.
I was deeply saddened when we got the news of Dana French’s passing earlier this year. Dana was proud of his family, Frederick, and his Naval career. I was honored to attend his memorial service this weekend and hear countless stories of his impact on folks all throughout his life and our community.
A person wearing a black dress stands at a wooden lectern holding a microphone in a banquet hall, positioned beside an American flag. Another person stands nearby facing it. Several seated attendees are visible at tables decorated with white tablecloths and event materials. In the background, there is an open doorway leading to another room.
A large banquet hall is filled with round tables covered in white tablecloths, where many attendees are seated and facing a small stage area. At the front of the room, several people stand near a lectern positioned beside an American flag. One person at the lectern appears to be speaking, while others stand nearby in formal attire. The room features a patterned carpet, a tiled ceiling with bright overhead lighting, and festively decorated walls, including garlands and framed displays. Additional guests and tables are visible in the background, along with a buffet area on the left side of the room.
Three people stand together in a decorated event space. One person is wearing a patterned jacket with a light shirt and tie, another is dressed in a floral-patterned outfit, and the third is wearing a long black dress with decorative detailing near the collar. The background shows festive decorations, including garlands, strings of lights, and clusters of gold and purple balloons near the ceiling.
A group of five people stands in front of a decorated backdrop at an event celebrating the 125th anniversary of Frederick Elks Lodge #684, shown on a large banner behind them. The backdrop is adorned with greenery and lights. The individuals are dressed in formal evening attire, and a large wall clock is visible on the left side of the image.
Such a pleasure to visit Frederick Elks Lodge #684 for their 125th anniversary! Congratulations on reaching this milestone and for the community service and support you’ve provided to Frederick County. Special thanks to Exalted Ruler Vicky George and everyone who made the evening so memorable!
Three people at an informational table outdoors. Text on image reads "April is National County Government Month."
April is National County Government Month! Frederick County Government is proud to serve our community, and we are grateful to all who make this county such a special place. Thank you to all of our dedicated employees for making this work possible and for everything you do each day. 🌟
A group of people stands together in a meeting room beneath a large wall‑mounted screen displaying several participants joining remotely via video call. The group is positioned in front of two dark blue curtains and a framed picture on the wall. The screen above shows a grid of virtual attendees with various backgrounds. The room has patterned valances over the windows and a drop‑ceiling with fluorescent lighting.
On July 4th, our nation will celebrate its 250th anniversary. Frederick County's U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission is planning and promoting celebrations across the county. Don’t forget, Music of the Regiment’s Spring Revery is happening this Sunday, April 12: www.visitfrederick.org/event/music-...
A large group of people stands together on a sidewalk in front of a one‑story building with a banner that reads “Youth Center Coming 2028!” The group is positioned in several rows, extending across most of the building’s front. Near the center, several individuals hold an oversized ceremonial check. The building has large windows and is marked with the number “300A” on the upper right side. Two tall flagpoles stand in front of the building, and a tree with pink blossoms is visible on the right edge of the image.
A group of people stands together on a grassy area in front of a building marked with the number “300A.” Above them, a large banner on the building reads “Youth Center Coming 2028!” The group forms several rows and is gathered around an oversized ceremonial check that a few individuals hold at the center. Two tall flagpoles stand behind the group, and a tree with pink blossoms is visible on the right side of the image.
A group of young people stands together on a grassy area in front of a building with a banner that reads “Youth Center Coming 2028!” Several individuals in the front hold an oversized ceremonial check made out to the City of Frederick for three million dollars, dated April 8, 2026, with a memo indicating it is for Frederick Youth Center renovations. The building has large windows and is marked with the number “300A.” A tree with bright pink blossoms is visible on the right side, and additional people can be seen gathered in the background near the entrance.
Five individuals stand outdoors on a grassy area in front of a building, holding an oversized ceremonial check. The check is made out to the City of Frederick for three million dollars, dated April 8, 2026, with a memo indicating it is for Frederick Youth Center renovations. A blossoming tree with pink flowers is visible to the right, and the group is arranged in a line facing the camera, holding the check prominently across the center of the image.
Exciting progress is underway at the future Frederick Youth Center, located on surplus property donated by Frederick County. This project reflects years of collaboration and a commitment to creating a safe, welcoming space for young people. Thank you to everyone helping make this a reality!
Indoor event where Senator Chris Van Hollen stands at a lectern with an official seal, addressing an audience seated in rows. Behind him are the United States flag, the Maryland state flag, and two large banners reading “Rich History” and “Bright Future,” each featuring images of local landmarks and community scenes. To the right, an easel displays a large sign referencing funding for Frederick County. The audience members face him and are listening to the presentation.
A group of eight people stands indoors holding an oversized ceremonial check made out to Frederick County for one million dollars. The group is positioned between two large display banners that read “Rich History” and “Bright Future,” each featuring images of local landmarks and community activities. Behind the group are multiple flags, including the Maryland state flag. The individuals are standing close together and facing the camera, with the check prominently displayed in the center.
A group of people stands together outside the Frederick Senior Center beneath a sign displaying the building’s name and street number “1440.” The group is gathered on the sidewalk in front of the entrance, holding a large ceremonial check made out to Frederick County for one million dollars. Another person in the group holds a “Team Maryland” sign. The building exterior is light-colored with a covered entryway, and trees and additional structures are visible in the background. The group is arranged in a semicircle facing the camera, with the check prominently displayed at the center.
Jessica Fitzwater in a yellow blazer stands at a lectern in an indoor event space, addressing an audience seated in rows. The lectern displays an official seal, and behind it are two large banners that read “Rich History” and “Bright Future,” each featuring photos of local landmarks and community scenes. Multiple flags, including the Maryland state flag and the United States flag, are arranged behind the speaker. To the right, an easel holds a display board showing text about funding for Frederick County.
Celebrating $1 million in federal funding for the Taney Senior Center & Affordable Housing, secured with thanks to Senators @vanhollen.senate.gov, @alsobrooks.senate.gov, and @repaprildelaney.bsky.social! The project will add a modern 20,000 sq ft senior center and 60 deeply affordable senior units.
Three individuals sit on an outdoor wooden stage structure, each wearing saffron-colored garments. They are positioned behind a wooden railing, with ceremonial items placed in front of them. The background shows leafless trees and colorful triangular pennant flags strung overhead.
A group of people stands together at an outdoor event, positioned behind a wooden railing structure decorated with string lights. One person in the center holds a folder with an official seal, while others stand on either side wearing brightly colored, traditional-style clothing. Additional attendees are visible in the foreground, facing the group. The setting includes wooden posts, a raised platform, and an overcast sky in the background.
CE Jessica Fitzwater stands at an outdoor event stage decorated with colorful triangular pennant flags. The individual is speaking at a podium, and several people are seated behind the podium on wooden benches. The background shows budding trees and a bright sky, with the stage framed by wooden posts and string lights overhead.
This past Saturday, I attended the Sri Bhaktha Anjaneya Temple Grand Welcoming Ceremony to celebrate the arrival of the 36-foot Vishwaroop Anjaneya (Hanuman) statue. Thank you to the Temple for hosting this meaningful event that brings people together in unity, cultural appreciation, and reflection.
Happy Easter! Wishing everyone a joyful and peaceful day surrounded by your loved ones!
Exciting news for high school + college students! Frederick County is launching its first countywide Career Explorer Program, a one-stop shop for internships, apprenticeships, and more across County departments. Learn more: frederickmd.attract.neogov.com/career-explorer-program/p/pathfinder-programs
Three people stand on a stage in front of a large screen displaying a shield-shaped logo and the words “Public Safety Awards.” One person holds an award plaque while the others stand beside this individual.
A group of uniformed public safety personnel stands on a stage holding certificates, accompanied by another individual in professional attire. An American flag is displayed to the left, and a large screen in the background shows a shield-style logo with the letters “P S” and the words “Public Safety.”
Three people stand on a stage in front of a large screen displaying a shield-style logo and event text. One woman with a long floral shirt holds an award while the others stand beside this individual.
A group of people stands together at an indoor event on a stage. One person in the foreground is wearing a light-colored sleeveless dress with a textured pattern. A person on the right is wearing a teal jacket and holding an award. Additional individuals are visible around a podium or presentation area. In the background, part of a projected screen shows text that includes the words “Outstanding Citizen Award,” along with graphic elements and a portion of a flag.
I was honored to attend and present at the 11th Annual Frederick County Public Safety Awards to celebrate the excellence, service, leadership, and bravery of Frederick County's heroes in law enforcement, fire and rescue, animal control, emergency services, and civilian personnel.
A group of people stands together outside a red brick building with white columns and a decorative pediment above the entrance. The group is holding a long red ribbon stretched across the front of the doorway, and one person in the center is using large ceremonial scissors to cut the ribbon. It is a ribbon-cutting event, with participants arranged in a line on the sidewalk in front of the building.
Four people stand together in a conference room, posing for a photo. Two individuals in the center hold a certificate of recognition. The room has long tables, office chairs, and large monitors mounted on the walls, with bright overhead lighting.
Congratulations to the Frederick Jazz Society on your first anniversary! Thank you to Eric Byrd and the board for proving that music is for everyone through jam sessions, workshops, and outreach that brings energy, creativity, and soul of jazz to all of Frederick County.
A blue graphic features the Frederick County seal at the top, along with the text “Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater.” Below, the words “Happy Passover” appear in large white letters. The center of the image shows white line-art illustrations of traditional Passover items, including matzah, a Seder plate, a wine bottle, a wine glass, books, and leafy branches.
Chag Pesach Sameach! May you celebrate this Passover in happiness and health with all your family and friends!
Four people stand together indoors on a small stage area, with one person in the center holding a proclamation document. CE Jessica Fitzwater stands to the right. The group is positioned in front of a light-colored wall
CE Jessica Fitzwater and an ASL interpreter stand on a small indoor stage in front of a large projection screen displaying the text "Celebrating Deaf History Month" and the date "March 31, 2026." Jessica is speaking at a microphone while the other is signing. The stage has wooden flooring, a few chairs and props on the left side.
A group of people stands together indoors in front of a stage area and a large screen displaying a graphic related to Deaf History Month. One person in the front holds a certificate while the rest of the group stands close together for a photo.
An older man stands indoors wearing a long-sleeved button-up shirt and black frame glasses and is signing with one hand while the other hand rests near the waist. A chair is visible in the background against a plain wall.
I joined the Maryland Deaf Community Center, the Maryland School for the Deaf, and many others to celebrate the start of Deaf History Month! We also learned updates on the almost completed Maryland Deaf Community Center. A big thanks to our Maryland School for the Deaf students and ASL interpreters!
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Celebratory graphic for Transgender Day of Visibility with a transgender pride flag at the top. Below, the text reads "Celebrating Transgender Day of Visibility." The seal of the state of Maryland and the text "Moore-Miller Administration" are at the bottom. The background is gradient blue.
As many in the trans community face growing challenges and uncertainty, Maryland remains committed to dignity, safety, and belonging for all.
As long as I am governor, Maryland will be a safe haven for our trans community.
I was honored to present a proclamation to the Child Advocacy Center of Frederick County declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. It was incredible to see so many people from different departments and organizations gather at Winchester Hall to wear blue and take a stand against child abuse.
I was privileged to attend Platoon 22’s Vietnam Veterans Breakfast and to hear veterans share their stories and hardships. Platoon 22 restores connection and recognition for those who served. Today I declared Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day to say what should have always been said: thank you.
