For too long, the contributions of Black architects to the landscape of American modernism have been overlooked. A recent initiative, however, is working to change that narrative.
The Getty Foundation’s Conserving Black Modernism program, launched in partnership with the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund in 2022, has awarded $3.1 million in grants to eight endangered buildings designed by African American architects.
These architectural gems, spread across the United States, represent a range of styles and serve as testaments to the creativity and talent of Black architects.
Among the awardees is Azurest South in Petersburg, Virginia. This unique residence and studio, designed by the pioneering architect Amaza Lee Meredith in 1934, exemplifies the Pueblo Revival style.
Another grant recipient, the trio of Dansby, Brawley, and Wheeler Halls at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, showcases the work of prominent African American architect Leon Allain. Built in the early 1970s, these buildings stand as significant contributions to the campus landscape.
Conserving Black Modernism Grantees for 2024
Azurest South in Petersburg, VA
Completed in 1934, Azurest South is the home and studio designed by the pioneering African American architect Amaza Lee Meredith. Located on the Virginia State University campus, where she established the Fine Arts program and lived with her partner Dr. Edna Meade Colson, the home is a colorful example of the International Style. Funding will support the implementation of a conservation management plan for the building.
Dansby, Brawley, and Wheeler Halls at Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA
Leon Allain, a prominent African American architect in the Atlanta area, designed Dansby, Brawley, and Wheeler halls at Morehouse College through the early 1970s. Funding will support building assessments and an Historic Structures Report for the three halls.
Ira Aldridge Theater, Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts at Howard University, Washington, D.C.
Ira Aldridge Theater, Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts at Howard University, Washington, D.C.
(Photo: Julie and Barry Harley of Visual 14)
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(Photo: Julie and Barry Harley of Visual 14)
The Ira Aldridge Theater was named for a famed 19th-century African-American actor, best known for his performances of Shakespeare. Designed by Hilyard Robinson and Paul R. Williams, the theater was completed in 1961 as part of Howard University’s campus. Funding will support a Historic Structures Report and an interpretation plan.
John F. Kennedy Community Center, Buffalo, NY
The JFK Recreation Center was designed by Robert T. Coles as his thesis project at MIT and completed in 1963. The building currently hosts a range of nonprofits and community activities. Funding will support a comprehensive preservation plan.
Kenneth G. Neigh Dormitory Complex, West Point, MS
Kenneth G. Neigh Dormitory Complex, West Point, MS. Designed by J. Max Bond Jr. and completed in 1970. Courtesy of Davis Brody Bond, a Page company.
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Designed by J. Max Bond Jr. and completed in 1970, the Kenneth G. Neigh Dormitory Complex is currently in an advanced state of deterioration as Mary Holmes Community College has been closed since 2005. Funding will support an adaptive reuse feasibility study for the complex.
Masjid Muhammad, Nations Mosque, Washington, D.C.
Completed in 1960, Masjid Mohammad, Nations Mosque was designed by David R. Byrd. The building represents one of the oldest Black Muslim congregations in the United States. Funding will support engineering and environmental studies for the building’s planned expansion, in addition to limited capital improvements.
Robert T. Coles House, Buffalo, NY
Robert T. Coles, the first African American Chancellor of the American Institute of Architects, designed and built his House and Studio in 1961. The two-story building is composed of prefabricated units set back in a garden and courtyard. Funding will support a Historic Structures Report, conservation plan, and a reuse and feasibility study.
Universal Life Insurance Co. Building, Memphis, TN
Designed in 1947 by McKissack and McKissack, one of the oldest Black-owned architectural firms in the United States, the Universal Life Insurance Company Building was completed in 1949. Funding will support a cultural interpretation plan and critical repairs to certain sections of the building.
Grants will support the creation of conservation plans, train individuals responsible for the ongoing care of these structures, and foster public awareness through storytelling initiatives.
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