Street Renamed in Honor of Historic Annapolis Couple

Middle Street in Parole received get a new name on Wednesday—George and Marion Phelps Lane.

George Phelps was the first African-American police officer in Anne Arundel County, and he also played a key role in providing security at the historic 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Justice, led by the late Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., according to a press release from the City of Annapolis.

A formal unveiling of the new street sign took place Wednesday afternoon in Parole, attended by Mayor Josh Cohen and a host of others.

Marion Phelps provided the funds that established the first Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) for Anne Arundel County in Annapolis.  Today, thanks to George and Marion Phelps, OIC remains the longest running job training program in Annapolis, according to the release.

In 2013, Mr. Phelps was honored by Mayor Cohen by being named as a “Living Landmark” and given an award acknowledging his sustained commitment to Annapolis’ cultural heritage.

George and Marion Phelps were married for more than 50 years until Marion’s death in 2010.