Thank you for connecting, thank you for giving, thank you for keeping the stories of Baltimore’s industrial history alive. We are stronger with you.

When Ira Kolman volunteered to work as a weekend docent in the corner store exhibition, the BMI jumped at the offer.

Ira’s father, Milt Kolman, owned Milton’s Fine Food from 1946 to 1968. So, Ira was a natural when it comes to entertaining visitors with stories about growing up in a mom and pop business. In addition to working as a grocer, Milt Kolman—who was also a fan and collector of vintage radios—volunteered at the BMI for nearly 30 years.

In memory of his father’s longtime support of the museum, Ira championed the effort to renovate the BMI’s Communications gallery and open the vibrant exhibition, Tap-Talk-Text: Telecommunications in Maryland.

Just as Milt charmed visitors with his stories about old-time radio shows in Baltimore, Tap.Talk.Text. captivates visitors with stories of Maryland’s pioneering contributions to the telecommunications industry. Sadly, Ira passed away in February 2020. The Kolman family’s legacy continues through the preservation of Maryland’s industrial heritage.

Visit the BMI’s Connection Factory to connect with stories that show how education, exhibitions, and partnerships strengthen our community.