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Historic Catonsville Talk at the Library, November 2

31 October 2026

Vintage travel poster of a historic Frederick Road streetscape with a library and an open history book

On Monday, November 2, the Catonsville Branch of the Baltimore County Public Library hosts "Historic Catonsville: Stories of Our Past" from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sheldon Smith, president of the Historical Society of Catonsville, will share how our neighboring town connects to some very big names in American and world history.

What is the Historic Catonsville talk about?

According to the library's event page for Historic Catonsville, the talk explores Catonsville's connections to the Declaration of Independence, George Washington, Napoleon Bonaparte, the Duke of Wellington, King William IV, Queen Victoria and Windsor Castle. That is quite a list for a town just up the road from Arbutus!

I love programs like this. The more you know about the history around you, the more at home you feel.

When and where is it?

DetailInformation
EventHistoric Catonsville: Stories of Our Past
DateMonday, November 2, 2026
Time6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
WhereCatonsville Meeting Room, Catonsville Branch Library, 1100 Frederick Road, Catonsville
SpeakerSheldon Smith, president of the Historical Society of Catonsville
AgesTeens 14 to 17, new adults, adults and older adults
ParkingFree open lot at the branch

The library's event page does not list a registration requirement or a cost, so it is a good idea to check the event page or call the branch at 410-887-0951 before you go.

Why go to the Catonsville branch instead of Arbutus?

The Arbutus Branch is closed for building maintenance through November 15, so Catonsville is the closest full-service branch for a lot of us right now. You can read more in my post on the Arbutus Library closure through November 15. The Catonsville branch is open until 8 p.m. on Mondays, and it has its own Local History Collection if the talk sparks your curiosity.

What else can I do to explore local history?

If you enjoy this talk, there is plenty more nearby. Take the Signs of People public art walk in Catonsville, which celebrates real Catonsville residents, or plan a visit to the Banneker Birthday Market Fair on November 7.

What does this mean if you are new to the area?

When you move somewhere new, local history is one of the fastest ways to feel connected. Arbutus, Catonsville, Halethorpe and Relay all grew up side by side, and their stories overlap. Programs like this are also a friendly way to meet neighbors who care about the community. If you are getting to know the area, my Moving to Arbutus guide is a great next step.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Historic Catonsville talk?

It is on Monday, November 2, 2026, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. It takes place in the Catonsville Meeting Room at the Catonsville Branch Library.

Who is presenting the Historic Catonsville talk?

Sheldon Smith, president of the Historical Society of Catonsville, is the speaker. He will share Catonsville's connections to American and world history.

Do I need to register for the Historic Catonsville talk?

The library's event page does not list a registration requirement. It is a good idea to check the event page or call the branch before you go.

Where is the Catonsville Branch Library?

The Catonsville Branch is at 1100 Frederick Road in Catonsville. It has a free open parking lot.

Is the Arbutus Branch Library open?

The Arbutus Branch is closed for building maintenance from October 26 to November 15. The Catonsville Branch is a nearby option while it is closed.

Disclaimer: This post is based on the Baltimore County Public Library event listing and Catonsville Branch page, checked on 31 October 2026. Event details can change, so please confirm with the library before you go.

Want to Know More About Life Around Arbutus?

Whether you are curious about the history, the neighborhoods or what it is like to own a home here, I would love to help. Call or text me at 443-421-6855.

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