As we continue celebrating Black History Month, we highlight another influential figure who not only helped shape Maryland but also left a lasting impact on the world. Matthew Henson, an African American explorer from Charles County, is best known for his pivotal role in the discovery of the North Pole.

Matthew Alexander Henson, the son of freeborn Black sharecroppers, was born on August 8, 1866, in Charles County. For nearly 23 years, he served as the trusted “first man” to explorer and mentor Robert Peary, accompanying him on seven Arctic expeditions. Though Henson traveled across many countries and continents, he is best known for his role in the historic April 6, 1909, expedition, where he was among the first to reach the North Pole.

Upon their return, Peary received widespread acclaim, while Henson, as an African American, was largely overlooked—an unfortunate reflection of the times. It wasn’t until 1937, following the release of his memoir, that a 70-year-old Henson finally received long-overdue recognition. In 1944, he and the other expedition members were awarded a Congressional Medal, cementing his legacy as a pioneering explorer.

Henson passed away in New York City on March 9, 1955, and was laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery. In recognition of his contributions, President Ronald Reagan approved the reinternment of Henson and his wife, Lucy, at Arlington National Cemetery in 1987, ensuring his legacy would be honored among the nation’s heroes.

For more on Matthew Henson and his achievements, check out the Matthew Henson Biography. To learn more about some of the influential African Americans from Maryland, explore 40 Black Heroes From Maryland You Need to Know.

If you would like your county featured in Fun Facts, please get in touch with Amanda Grosskrueger at agrosskrueger@mdcounties.org.