TV and Video Coverage: Forgotten Children Initiative
Since the public announcement of the rediscovery of the House of Reformation burial site on July 17, 2025, waves of news attention have followed. We’ll include links to television and video coverage below as they are published. You can find print articles and podcast segments in their respective news sections.
‘Still grieving’: Inquiry begins of ‘hundreds’ of graves at former juvenile detention site
This news segment on NBC4 features Phyllis Hammond, niece of Amos Hammond, who was one of the boys who died and was buried in an unmarked site at the Maryland House of Reformation. Phyllis now serves as a member of the the Maryland Commission on the House of Reformation and Instruction for Colored Children, which just held its first meeting. Through the incredible genealogical work headed by Malissa Ruffner, our Forgotten Children Initiative has been contacting potential living relatives of these children. Earlier this summer, we hosted the first Family Gathering of these relatives. The work continues, and with the voices of the families now finally being heard, these boys will never be forgotten.
Maryland representatives call for answers at burial site near Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery
New segment on WUSA9 exploring the legislative push for answers.
Coverage Following the Initial Visit to the House of Reformation Site by State Senator Will Smith, Jr. on 7/17/25:
The existence of the burial ground was publicly announced on July 17, 2025 following a visit to the cemetery by Maryland State Senator Will Smith (Chair of Maryland Senate’s Judicial Proceedings Committee), Vinny Schiraldi (former DJS Secretary) and Marc Schindler (former DJS Assistant Secretary & Chief of Staff).
Maryland moves to recognize Black boys’ unmarked graves near historic detention center
TV coverage by NBC’s Washington affiliate (7/18/25)
Coverage Following the Visit to the House of Reformation Site by the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus on 9/23/25:
Two months after the public announcement in July 2025, the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus visited the House of Reformation Site in September 2025. Their visit renewed media attention and brought even more focus to the forgotten children buried there.
Black Maryland legislators visit historic graveyard where over 200 youth are buried
Story on local NBC TV news (9/24/25)
Maryland leaders look to preserve history of Black boys who died at former reform school
Story on local ABC TV news (9/23/25)
Maryland state lawmakers pledge to restore neglected burial site of Black children in Cheltenham
Story on local CBS TV news (9/23/25)
