As I visit museums across the country, I’m continually inspired by the unique ways they tell America’s story, provide impactful programs, and serve as beacons of culture and community for those near and far.
On October 12, we remember the union of Louis Armstrong and Lucille Wilson, an entertainer and dancer who performed at Harlem’s iconic venues, The Alhambra and The Cotton Club. Their anniversary holds special significance because it was Lucille who, after their honeymoon, made the pivotal decision to step off the road and purchase a home in Corona, Queens, where they would spend the rest of their lives and become integral members of their neighborhood.
This home, now the Louis Armstrong House Museum & Archives, serves as the cornerstone for preserving and promoting Armstrong's cultural, historical, and humanitarian legacy. The museum educates and inspires visitors by showcasing archival materials, offering public programs, and engaging with contemporary artists to foster new creations. In July, the museum earned the prestigious Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) National Medal, the nation’s highest honor awarded to libraries and museums for their significant impact on their communities. The Museum offers programs that speak to Armstrong’s legacy and meet the needs of their community – programs on home ownership, education, incarceration, public advocacy, and artistic creation.
I had the pleasure of visiting this gem in August and meeting with Executive Director Regina Bain and Director of Guest Experiences Adriana Carrillo Silva (Filstrup) for a tour. My mother (89) and I were captivated by their passion and the incredible two-decade journey it took to preserve the Armstrongs' house and open the Louis Armstrong Center. Located across the street from the museum, the Center now houses the world’s largest archive for a jazz musician—60,000 pieces strong—and features a 75-seat venue for performances, lectures, films, and educational programs. On the tour, they shared photos of Louis playing trumpet on his front stoop (yep, that's what we call it in NYC), they mingled with neighbors, and told us stories of the how the Armstrongs shared Louis’ music and their home with their neighborhood.
Lucille’s vision of homeownership made this all possible. After several attempts to convince Louis to buy a house, Lucille took the leap herself and bought the house with her own money and without Louis’ input. In March 1943, she bought their home, which Louis came to love, living there until his passing in 1971.
If you haven't yet, I highly recommend visiting the Louis Armstrong House Museum—a true treasure in Queens.
