Friends of the Tanner House featured in Philadelphia Tribune (9/17/2022)

Philly's historic Tanner House faces threat of destruction

The home of Henry Ossawa Tanner, an African-American 19th-century painter with international acclaim, is in North Central Philadelphia at 2908 W. Diamond St. The house was designated a national historic landmark, but faces threats of destruction due to its worsening conditions.

A group of Black preservationists called the Friends of the Henry O. Tanner House began a campaign to save the house last year.

“A lot of people come into their understanding of North Philadelphia based on our contemporary struggles around crime, violence, and poverty,” said Chris Rodgers, program director for the Paul Robeson House & Museum and Friend of the Tanner House. “But there is such a rich history of Black folks who accomplished so much that needs to be talked about more in North Philadelphia.

“There is so much beauty and excellence that comes out of North Philadelphia,” Rogers said. “This home could symbolize what new generations can do in terms of those accomplishments.”