Marian Anderson House: A Tribute to a Voice That Changed the World in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a city soaked in history and culture, where echoes of transformative voices fill the air. Among these voices, none resounds more powerfully than that of Marian Anderson, whose artistry and courage broke racial barriers and inspired a nation. The Marian Anderson House, located at 762 South Martin Street in the vibrant West Rittenhouse Square neighborhood, serves as a magnificent living museum dedicated to her life, legacy, and enduring impact.

This article invites tourists to explore the historic home of one of America’s most celebrated contraltos, learn about her tremendous contributions to music and civil rights, and discover how the museum anchors itself within Philadelphia’s dynamic cultural landscape. Visitors of all ages and backgrounds will find the experience both inspiring and deeply enriching.

The Historic Marian Anderson House: Where History and Music Resonate

The Marian Anderson House is a modest yet profoundly significant 19th-century brick rowhouse tucked quietly between 19th and 20th Streets on Martin Street. Purchased by Anderson in 1924—the same year she became the first African American artist to record spirituals for a major American record label—the house was her personal sanctuary during critical years of her career. It was in the soundproofed basement entertainment center, complete with a piano and a portable bar stocked with her favorite drinks, that she entertained fellow musicians, friends, and dignitaries during a time when segregation severely limited social opportunities for Black artists.

Today, the house contains rare photos, original memorabilia, books, and films that illuminate Anderson’s extraordinary life journey—both as a world-class performer and a heroic advocate for racial equality.

An Immersive Museum Experience

The museum is operated by the Marian Anderson Historical Society, which has cared for this landmark for over 30 years. Visitors can expect:

• Guided Tours: Through appointment-only tours, guests are led by knowledgeable docents who share Anderson’s biography, her global impact, and her personal stories. Tours often include viewing a documentary that vividly captures her heritage, challenges, and triumphs.
• Live Performances: The museum’s Scholar Artist Program features professional and emerging artists who perform regularly, celebrating Anderson’s musical legacy through concerts and recitals of classical pieces, spirituals, and opera.
• Annual Exhibitions: The museum rotates its exhibitions annually, offering fresh perspectives on Anderson’s life, career milestones, and influence on civil rights and the arts.
• Community Engagement: The site also functions as a hub for lectures, workshops, and educational programs supporting emerging classical and opera artists, in the spirit of Marian Anderson’s mentorship.

Marian Anderson’s Legacy: A Voice for Unity and Justice

Anderson’s life extended far beyond her beautiful voice. Her 1939 historic Lincoln Memorial concert, following her rejection from the segregated Constitution Hall, symbolized a turning point in the civil rights movement. Invited by First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and Secretary of the Interior Harold Ickes, the concert drew over 75,000 attendees and millions more via radio, boldly challenging segregation and inspiring generations.

Throughout her life, Anderson toured internationally, promoting peace, racial justice, and human dignity, earning the Presidential Medal of Freedom, National Medal of Arts, and numerous accolades. The Marian Anderson House breathes life into these stories, offering visitors a firsthand connection to her enduring spirit.

Nearby Philadelphia Museums: Enrich Your Visit

Philadelphia’s rich cultural landscape makes it easy to create a full day or multi-day itinerary that pairs the Marian Anderson House with other world-class museums and historic sites. Plan to visit:

• Discover natural history and biodiversity at the Academy of Natural Sciences
• Explore African American heritage at the African American Museum in Philadelphia
• Admire the masterpieces at the Barnes Foundation
• Experience science and innovation at the Franklin Institute
• View exquisite sculptures at the Rodin Museum
• Walk the historic site of America’s flag at The Betsy Ross House
• Explore the fascinating Wagner Free Institute of Science
• Discover American art at the Woodmere Art Museum
• Visit one of New York’s oldest houses at the Wyckoff House Museum
• Travel the world’s cultures at the Penn Museum
• Explore literature and rare books at the Rosenbach Museum & Library
• Delve into scientific heritage at the Science History Institute
• Learn about Philadelphia’s firefighting history at the Fireman’s Hall Museum

Plan Your Visit

• Location: 762 South Martin Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146 (Marian Anderson Way)
• Hours: Tours are available Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM by appointment only. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance.
• Admission: A modest fee supports ongoing preservation and programming; group and school tours available.
• Accessibility: The residence museum strives to accommodate visitors with disabilities; contact staff for assistance.

Visiting the Marian Anderson House provides tourists a profound and personal connection to a pioneering artist whose voice transcended music to become a symbol of dignity, resilience, and justice. The museum’s intimate setting, engaging tours, and living programs celebrate Anderson’s heritage while empowering new generations of artists and activists.

Coupled with Philadelphia’s dynamic array of museums and historic venues linked throughout this article, the Marian Anderson House is a cornerstone experience for anyone wandering Philadelphia’s rich historical corridors.

Plan your visit today and let the inspiring story of Marian Anderson’s life and legacy add depth and meaning to your Philadelphia journey.

Visit The Marian Anderson House

• Name: Marian Anderson Historical Residence & Museum

• Address: 762 South Martin Street (Marian Anderson Way), Philadelphia, PA 19146

• Phone Number: (215) 779-4219

• Email Address: marianandersonhistoricsociety@gmail.com

• Map Location: 762 South Martin Street on Map

Ticket Information

• General Admission: $10 per person

• School Groups with Brown Bag Lunch: $15 per person

• Catered Group Tours (Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner): $25 per person

• All bookings are non-refundable and must be reserved in advance

• Exclusive and group tickets also available through the Independence Visitors Center

General Admission Information

• Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Closed on Sundays and major holidays

• Reservations required for all tours—walk-ins accepted only when space permits

• Tours include a guided walk-through of the museum, a short documentary about Marian Anderson, and live performances by Marian Anderson Scholar Artists

• Educational and group programs available for schools, organizations, and cultural groups

Accessibility Information

• Accessibility details not publicly listed; visitors should contact in advance to discuss specific needs

• Situated in a historic 19th-century rowhouse; some areas may have limited accessibility

Additional Visitor Information

• The museum preserves the legacy and personal home of world-renowned contralto and civil rights pioneer Marian Anderson

• Exhibits change annually and feature Anderson’s personal belongings, recordings, photographs, and memorabilia

• The museum also houses the Marian Anderson Scholar Artist Program, which supports young classical and performing artists

• Located near Rittenhouse Square and the Marian Anderson Heritage Village

• Website: www.marianandersonhistoricalsociety.weebly.com