Sacred Places
Stony Run Park
He chose the spot for his own memorial bench.
WHERE
Baltimore, MD
SETTING
Neighborhood
PARTNER INSTITUTION
Friends of Stony Run
Visit
Where it is
Stony Run Trail, Baltimore, MD
What happens here
The space draws anyone using the trail who wants to sidestep into a shady spot, listen to the stream and birdcalls, watch for wildlife, and spend a quiet, contemplative moment or more. Years of journal entries show it welcoming many different kinds of people from all walks of life, united in their appreciation of the chance for respite, rejuvenation, and often for sharing.
HOW IT CAME TO BE
He picked the place himself.
01
The Need
In north central Baltimore, a three-mile walking trail follows the Stony Run stream, framed by school campuses and residential neighbourhoods, offering a true escape from urban life but nowhere to stop within it.
02
The Vision
Dr. Michael Beer, retired chairman of Johns Hopkins University's biophysics department and the original Firesoul, was committed to the park's upkeep and organized the replanting of native species there for many years. When the Jones Falls Watershed Association proposed a bench honouring his efforts, he chose the location himself: in view of the stream, sheltered by trees. It stands as a tribute to his memory and as a reminder of the ongoing importance of volunteer stewardship, now carried forward by Friends of Stony Run.
03
The Transformation
The site sits toward the northern end of the linear park, a shady spot off the trail within earshot of the stream.
WHO TENDS IT
Janet Felsten
Firesoul, Stony Run Park
Read more →
HEAR FROM THE VISITORS
From the Little Yellow Journal
What a lovely spot! We are new to this neighborhood & feel so welcomed. Thank you for caring about protecting nature here! xoxx
