Historic East Towson

"The land of pleasant living"


The free Black community in East Towson dates back to 1829 when Maryland’s 15th governor, Charles Carnan Ridgely of Hampton estates, died and the terms of his will freed some of the

hundreds he enslaved.

 September 30, 2025

Smart Growth America Chooses Historic East Towson for National Pilot

Historic East Towson and NETIA were selected by Smart Growth America as one of only three communities nationwide to help design a quick-build demonstration project that improves street safety and reconnects residents to schools, parks, and essential services currently divided by Towsontown Boulevard. It’s a big step toward honoring the neighborhood’s rich history while making daily travel safer for everyone.

Northeast Towson

Improvement Association

Our Mission

Our mission is to preserve and protect the quality of life for existing and future residents of Historic East Towson.


Our Vision

Historic East Towson is Baltimore County’s oldest

African-American community connecting our rich and complex history to a vibrant new future.


Our Values

We are committed to sustaining a community and economy

that honors the history, heritage, and legacy of Historic East Towson.