Our Historic Journey
A timeline chronicling the remarkable history of Masjid Ul Haqq, Baltimore’s oldest continually operating Islamic place of worship
Nearly 70 Years of Faith & Service
Masjid Ul Haqq stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and community dedication. For nearly 70 years, we have been a spiritual anchor in the Upton neighborhood, witnessing and participating in the transformation of Baltimore’s Islamic community from the Nation of Islam movement to Orthodox Sunni Islam. Our story is intertwined with the Civil Rights Movement, the evolution of Black American Islam, and the enduring spirit of community service.
-1920s
Early Islamic Roots in America
The Islamic faith begins establishing itself in American communities, particularly within African American populations. Muslim immigrants from Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon arrive, planting seeds of Islamic tradition in American soil.
Historical Context
At least 10% of enslaved Africans brought to America were Muslim, maintaining their faith despite tremendous adversity.
Nation of Islam Emerges
Master Fard Muhammad establishes the Nation of Islam in Detroit, beginning a movement that would profoundly impact African American communities and lay the groundwork for Islamic growth in Baltimore.
- Focus on Black empowerment and self-sufficiency
- Establishment of temples across major cities
- Introduction of Islamic principles to African Americans
Islam Arrives in Baltimore
The Islamic Community begins to take root in Baltimore, marking the beginning of an organized Muslim presence in the city. This period sees the early formation of what would become Baltimore’s Islamic foundation.
Muhammad Temple Number Six Founded
In the spring of 1954, the organization establishes itself in the Upton neighborhood. The sanctuary is located on the second floor of a commerce building at the corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Greenwillow Street, marking the beginning of our permanent presence in West Baltimore.
Pennsylvania Avenue & Greenwillow Street – The birthplace of organized Islam in Baltimore
-1958
514 Wilson Street Acquired
To expand sanctuary space and community services, the organization receives crucial assistance from Baltimore business leaders including Henry Parks (Parks Sausage), Dr. Winfred Bryson (Advance Federal Savings and Loan), and “Little” Willie Adams to purchase a former garage and carriage stable on Wilson Street.
514 Wilson Street, 1957 – Before renovation
Building History
The structure was originally built as the Keystone Livery Stable (1880-1881), later serving as P. Bradley and Son Livery Stables (1882-1921), a garage (1924), and aluminum manufacturing (1956-1959).
New Sanctuary Opens
After a year of dedicated renovation work and countless volunteer hours, Muhammad Temple Number Six opens the doors to its new sanctuary, businesses, and educational facilities in the fall of 1959.
The newly opened sanctuary, 1959
- Shabazz Restaurant & Bakery established
- Barbershop opened
- Educational classes for men, women, and youth begin
- Bean pie distribution center starts
-70s
Economic Self-Sufficiency
The Masjid expands its business operations throughout Baltimore, establishing eight restaurants and a bakery production outlet. Shabazz Restaurant at 1608 Pennsylvania Avenue becomes known as an “Oasis of Delectable Food” in Upton (1967-1975).
- Supermarket
- Bookstore
- Import/Domestic Distribution (Peruvian Whiting Fish, Meats, Produce)
- Food Co-Op
- Eight restaurants across Baltimore
Full-Time School Established
The first full-time school (Kindergarten through 12th grade) opens to both Muslim and non-Muslim students, emphasizing academic excellence and character development.
Educational Legacy
Before closing in 1994, the school graduated over 100 seniors who entered professions including medicine, engineering, law, and information technology. At its peak, enrollment reached 200 students.
Historic Transition to Orthodox Sunni Islam
Following the death of Elijah Muhammad on February 25, 1975, his son Wallace D. Muhammad (later Imam Warith Deen Mohammed) assumes leadership and guides the Nation of Islam toward Orthodox Sunni Islam, renaming it the World Community Al-Islam in the West.
Prayer room during the transition period
A Transformative Moment
Services transition to Arabic. The organization fully embraces the five pillars of Islam and orthodox Islamic practices. Dr. Mohamed Z. Awad noted that services became indistinguishable from those conducted in Cairo or any other Masjid worldwide.
Embracing Global Islam
The organization solidifies its commitment to Orthodox Sunni Islam. The Islamic Community offers scholarships to Islamic University and facilitates invitations for Western Muslims to travel in the Middle East. Imam Warith D. Muhammad becomes an “ambassador at large,” with a council of six elected Imams governing the organization.
- Increased cultural and educational exchanges
- Connection with global Muslim community
- Continued focus on community development
Wilson Street Becomes Islamic Way
On May 7, 1989, Mayor Kurt L. Schmoke presents a proclamation declaring “Islamic Community Day” and officially renames Wilson Street to Islamic Way, recognizing the profound impact of the Masjid on Baltimore.
The street sign commemorating the renaming to Islamic Way
Baltimore City Historic Landmark
Masjid Al Haqq is officially designated as a Baltimore City Historic Landmark by the Baltimore Commission for Historical and Architectural Preservation on August 13, 2002 (hearing date), with final designation in 2003.
Front facade facing Islamic Way
Historic Significance
Recognized for exemplifying the transformation from the Nation of Islam to Orthodox Sunni Islam and for being the center of Baltimore’s Islamic Community—a history that corresponds to the nation’s Civil Rights movement, especially as exemplified by Malcolm X.
A Living Legacy
Masjid Ul Haqq continues to serve as a spiritual home and community anchor in West Baltimore, maintaining its commitment to worship, education, community service, and social justice. As Baltimore’s oldest continually operating Islamic place of worship, we remain dedicated to serving all who seek guidance, community, and connection.
Masjid Ul Haqq today – 514 Islamic Way
- Daily prayers and Jummah services
- Islamic education programs
- Community outreach and support
- Interfaith dialogue and partnerships