Master Plan: The Rehabilitation of Paul Robeson House

Kelly/Maiello Inc.; UJMN; Lewis, Claude

From project summary statement: "The legendary African-American artist and humanist Paul Robeson spent the last ten years of his life living in Philadelphia in the home of his sister at 4951 Walnut Street. The house he lived in was acquired in 1994 by the West Philadelphia Cultural Alliance (WPCA) who maintain it today as a memorial and interpretive center where visitors can learn about the legacy of this authentic American hero. Several years ago the Board of Trustees of WPCA resolved to undertake a multi-year campaign that would lead to the restoration of the Robeson House and the adjacent structure (4949 Walnut Street) which they own and maintain as their offices. Additionally they sought to design and install new exhibits to tell the story of Robeson's remarkable life for the benefit of visitors of all ages. In doing this they are fulfilling a fundamental purpose of their organization as stated in their corporate charter. With grants received from the Save America's Treasures Fund, they retained architects Kelly/Maiello and Associates and exhibit designers UJMN to prepare a master plan for the restoration and rehabilitation of the two buildings and for the installation of the new permanent exhibit about Robeson. This master plan contains the consultants' findings and recommendations. It is intended to give prospective supporters a very clear picture of what is proposed, why it is proposed, and what further resources will be needed to complete the project. In short the master plan is a roadmap for all who have made or wish to make a commitment to preserve the legacy of Paul Robeson. Project funding was provided in part by a 2002 Save America's Treasures grant to the West Philadelphia Cultural Alliance (grant number 42-02-ML-1246) administered by the State, Tribal, and Local Plans and Grants Division, National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior. The Federal Save America's Treasures (SAT) grants program began in 1999 and helps preserve nationally significant historic properties and collections that convey our nation's rich heritage to future generations of Americans. Since 1999, there have been almost 4,000 requests for funding totaling $1.54 billion. In response to these requests, $315,152,000 was awarded to 1,287 recipients. Grants were awarded to Federal, state, local, and tribal government entities, as well as non-profit organizations through a competitive matching-grant program.

Master Plan: The Rehabilitation of Paul Robeson House

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