Many native Baltimoreans and others are quite familiar with the name of Joseph Meyerhoff, which is synonymous with the downtown symphony hall at 1212 Cathedral Street as well as with many Jewish and civic organizations.
In local circles, Meyerhoff’s name is as recognizable as Coca-Cola or Old Bay Seasoning. Interestingly, my friend, the late Marc Messing, once told me that Meyerhoff actually disliked seeing his name engraved on buildings and “in lights.” Decades ago, Messing worked for Meyerhoff in various capacities and became a close confidant of the real estate developer, fundraiser, community leader and philanthropist.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the death of Meyerhoff, who was born in the now-Ukrainian city of Poltava, lived most of his life in Baltimore and passed away at the age of 85…