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Post by Emaleigh Doley / Photo by B. Krist

Marian Anderson, the famed contralto singer, began her great life here in Philadelphia. Born on February 27, 1887, Anderson grew up at Fitzwater and Martin Streets in South Philadelphia. At the age of six, she started her musical career singing in the choir at Union Baptist Church, and later attended South Philadelphia High School. In 1924, she purchased what is now the Marian Anderson Residence Museum, located directly across the street from the church where she sang in her youth.

The museum, run by the Marian Anderson Historical Society, is dedicated to preserving Anderson’s legacy. In rooms throughout the house, visitors can explore Marian Anderson’s world through memorabilia, books, rare photos, paintings and films. Anderson, who played a vital role in the acceptance of African-American musicians in the classical musical world, overcame racial bias to capture a nation, becoming one of the most successful singers of her time and an important figure in American history. She is much revered for her trailblazing performances, including her now legendary 1939 Easter Sunday concert at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., which was broadcast over national radio and drew an enthusiastic audience of 75,000 people “” the largest gathering at the mall in its history up to that time.

To read more about the singer’s life, listen to audio samples of her music, and view historic video interviews, explore the Annenberg Rare Book & Manuscript Library’s (University of Pennsylvania) virtual exhibition, Marian Anderson, A Life in Song, online here. To visit the museum, check out www.mariananderson.org or call (215) 732-9505 for more information on tours and special events.

Visit the Marian Anderson Residence Museum
762 S. Marian Anderson Way (Martin Street), Philadelphia, PA 19146
(215) 732-9505
www.mariananderson.org
Adults $10 donation