Louis Armstrong House facts for kids
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Louis Armstrong House
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Louis Armstrong House, 2012
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| Location | 34-56 107th Street, Queens, New York |
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| Built | 1910 |
| Architect | Robert W. Johnson |
| NRHP reference No. | 76001265 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | May 11, 1976 |
| Designated NHL | May 11, 1976 |
The Louis Armstrong House is a special museum in New York City. It is located at 34-56 107th Street in the Corona area of Queens. This house was the home of the famous jazz musician Louis Armstrong and his wife, Lucille Wilson. They lived there from 1943 until Louis passed away in 1971.
After Louis's death, Lucille gave the house to New York City. She wanted it to become a museum about her husband's life. The house was named a National Historic Landmark in 1976. It also became a New York City Landmark in 1988. Today, it is a museum that hosts concerts and educational programs. You can also explore its huge collection of writings, books, recordings, and souvenirs.
About the Armstrong House
The Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation gave the house to the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs. This happened after Lucille Armstrong passed away in 1983. The beautiful brick house was designed by architect Robert W. Johnson. It was built by Thomas Daly in 1910.
When the Armstrongs moved in, they made some changes. They removed the porch at the front of the house. This space was then added to the living room, making it bigger. Outside, they created a lovely garden. They also built a garage for their cars.
Inside the Home
The inside of the house was also updated to fit their style. Fancy bathrooms and a modern kitchen were added. These were not part of the original house. Louis Armstrong received many gifts during his tours. He traveled all over the world, from Asia to Europe and Africa. These gifts included paintings and souvenirs. They found a special place on dressers, shelves, and walls throughout their home.
The Museum Today
The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission decided if the house should be a landmark. They held a meeting in November 1985. Many people supported the idea. Letters and statements were read, and five people spoke in favor. On December 13, 1988, the house officially became an individual landmark.
Louis Armstrong Center
A new building, the Louis Armstrong Center, opened in 2023. It is right across the street from the Armstrongs' house. Construction began in 2017. This center holds the largest collection of items from a jazz musician. It has more than 60,000 items! The center also has a performance space with 75 seats. Here, visitors can enjoy music and learn more about jazz.
See also
In Spanish: Casa Louis Armstrong para niños
