LWVAAC continues its Books for Learning program with a discussion of Antonia Hylton's Madness: Race and Insanity in a Jim Crow Asylum. Described by the New York Times as “fascinating…meticulous research,” Hylton's book uses official records, newspaper reports and personal accounts to chronicle the disturbing 93-year history of Crownsville Hospital in Anne Arundel County. Originally established in 1911 as the Hospital for the Negro Insane of Maryland, Crownsville Hospital impacted the lives of thousands of Black families in our county and beyond. Now owned by Anne Arundel County, the hospital campus is currently the subject of a Master Plan seeking to repurpose the land in a way that honors those lives.

Distinguished educator and Touchstones discussion leader Cynthia Barry will moderate. Madness is available at county public libraries. Email Niecy at [email protected] to request a copy from the LWVAAC lending library.

Date: Friday, March 22

Time: 2:00 to 3:30 p.m.

Place: Busch Annapolis Library, 1410 West St, Annapolis

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Books for Learning, past and present

Since 2016, LWVAAC members have met to discuss current topics and writings through our Books for Learning program. Madness: Race and Insanity in a Jim Crow Asylum is our 15th book. Click here for a list of prior readings.