Watch CBS News

Traces of Baltimore Uprising Featured In Md. Historical Society Exhibit

BALTIMORE (WJZ) — Museums look at a society that's gone digital, and are trying to figure out how to keep relevant with analog objects.

The uprising that happened in Baltimore last April was history-making -- but what will future generations see?

Alexandra Deutsch is collecting history as it happens, like a melted aluminum from a vehicle and charred bricks that were lying in the street after firefighters put out the massive blaze during last year's riots.

"These objects, that, on the surface, you could overlook, really tell such a poignant story about what was going on on the ground," said Deutsch.

As soon as peace returned, the museum put out a call for images, and professional and amateurs responded.

Joe Tropea culled through 2,000 images to feature the work of eight photographers.

"They contributed their photographs because they wanted to add to the records so that people can see what they saw on the streets," said Tropea.

The museum's initiatives are part of a larger exhibition about what they've collected in the past five years and the people who donated.

When Baltimore's iconic gay club the "Hippo" closed, the owner offered up the sign.

"It played a big role in supporting communities in the city. So it's so wonderful to have it be part of the collection," Deutsch said.

WJZ's Mike Schuh is adding to the history with a smoke canister fired by police. He found it lying in the gutter.

"This object has a tremendous amount to tell, and this is exactly the kind of thing that we want to have in the collections of the Maryland Historical Society," said Deutsch.

The exhibit opens later this week, and the curator is currently looking for anyone with an authentic protest sign they may have saved from the time of the uprising.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.