Home of Henry Ossawa Tanner—one of the first internationally renowned African American artists—faces demolition (11/25/22)

Home of Henry Ossawa Tanner—one of the first internationally renowned African American artists—faces demolition

North Philadelphia’s Tanner House, a rowhouse residence that once belonged to Henry Ossawa Tanner (1859-1937), regarded as one of the first African American artists to achieve international renown, is threatened with demolition due to its worsening condition and despite having been granted National Historic Landmark status in 1976. Local Black preservationists have launched a multi-pronged fundraising campaign to save the building, citing its historic significance, its relevance to the local community and its importance as a testament to Black excellence, cultural dynamism and resilience in the face of oppression.