The National Museum of Language: College Park's Historic Secret

The National Museum of Language may be tucked away amidst the executive offices of 7100 Baltimore Avenue, but it brings something different to the table than the typical museum: a study of the world’s languages. 

“We have three underlying themes: the universal aspect of language; language and societies; and world language. We’re all connected which makes us unique because other language museums in the world focus on their own language. We’ve had guests from all over, from Barcelona, from London," said Pat Barr-Harrison, Vice President.

While there is a similar museum in Brazil, it caters to the Portuguese language. There is also one being developed in Barcelona, but according to the museum’s President Gary McCone, it remains in planning stages.

Both Barr-Harrison and McCone, like the rest of the museum’s employees, works as volunteers. In order to put up exhibits, the museum relies on grant money.

Currently there are two exhibits on display: the alphabetic written language, such as Chinese or Japanese, and the development of American English. The museum even offers to teach its visitors some written characters of Asian language and a chance to attempt some Calligraphy. 

“We extend learning. We take things they have learned and things they don’t even know and bring them together,” said Barr-Harrison.

Barr-Harrison, who spent 20 years working as Superintendent of Foreign Languages for Prince George’s County Schools, also worked with schools on various occasions. The museum is used as a historic field trip for many, but while the visit will be informative she assures it will also be “high school friendly.

Aside from student trips, the museum also serves various others, typically those who have some connection or interest in language, according to McCone. When giving guided tours, McCone attempts to give each guest the type of visit he or she wants. “I try to find out, you know, why you came here in the first place,” he said.

Where does the future of College Park’s Language Museum lie?

“We’re hoping to get a new place but we’re still looking in College Park. The university is a big attraction to us. I just don’t know if it would be very viable anywhere else,” said McCone. 

In fact, the museum maintains a relationship with the university. In the past, when a group too large to fit the size restraints of the museum came for a trip, Barr-Harrison was able to coordinate with the university’s Language House to keep all students occupied during their trip. 

The Language Museum is open Tuesdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the first and third Sundays of each month from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit www.languagemuseum.org.