[1] In the early 1980s, McElderry Park suffered from white flight and abandonment by its working class homeowners.

The closing of nearby public housing flooded the neighborhood with Section 8 tenants in individual rowhouses and apartments, with additional street crime, and illegal drug trade.

Efforts are underway to turn things around, replacing abandoned buildings with productive uses such as public gardens.

Historically, McElderry and the nearby neighborhood of Middle East were the heart of the Czech immigrant community in Baltimore.

[5][6] Former 38th president Jimmy Carter [served 1977-1981], assisted 300 volunteers on October 5, 2010 at a "Habitat for Humanity" project in McElderry Park.

[7] "Amazing Port Street Sacred Commons" is a prayer labyrinth, perennial garden, and open, grassy field located behind the Amazing Grace Lutheran Church (founded/merged 1996 from several earlier Lutheran churches), located at 2424 McElderry Street.