Nestled in Pittsburgh, the August Wilson House is still standing today—but it also represents more than a historic building. This landmark, which was originally Wilson’s childhood home, is now an active arts center that celebrates his legacy and engages new generations of artists and storytellers.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Born April 27, 1945, in Pittsburgh, PA; Died October 2, 2005, in Seattle, WA | |
| Playwright | |
| Fences, The Piano Lesson, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone | |
| Two Pulitzer Prizes for Drama | |
| Not specified in available sources | |
| Childhood home in the Hill District, Pittsburgh; later lived in Seattle | |
| Married Brenda Burton in 1969; later married Constanza Romero | |
| Sakina Ansari Wilson (daughter) |
Wilson became one of America’s most influential playwrights, and the place where he spent his formative years is now considered the August Wilson House, an arts and cultural center.
A brief history of the August Wilson House
Tale of Two Cities: A Brief History of the August Wilson House
The August Wilson House, in Pittsburgh’s Hill District, has a complex and layered history, one that reflects the cultural and economic development of the area. Knowing its history gives better years to its importance today.
Early Years of the House
The house, built in the 1840s, was originally used as a mixed-use building with a storefront on the ground floor and apartments above. In fact, during this period, the Hill District was a vibrant, multicultural neighborhood, filled with immigrants and African Americans drawn to Pittsburgh’s expanding industrial economy.
A Link to August Wilson
The house is particularly significant as it was the childhood home of August Wilson, where he spent the first twelve years of his life. His worldview and works were shaped during these formative years. The Hill District’s rich but difficult world served as the setting for much of the celebrated Pittsburgh Cycle, a group of ten plays, which detail African-American life over the course of the 20th century.
Historic Designation
The City of Pittsburgh designated the house a historic landmark in 2008, in recognition of its cultural and historical significance. In 2013, it received a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its status in the nation’s history.
Architectural Features and Restoration
Architectural Elements and Restoration Initiatives
The August Wilson House is not only a historical site; it’s an architectural treasure, a reflection of the period it was built in and the community it served.
The Original Structure
The house is a two-story brick structure, characteristic of the Hill District’s 19th-century architecture. Its original configuration was mixed-use, with commercial space on the ground floor and living quarters above. Humble though it was, the house served as a center for activity in a burgeoning neighborhood.
The Restoration Process
By the time it was named a historic site, the house was in disrepair. But due to Paul Ellis, Wilson’s nephew, working tirelessly with donors, including Denzel Washington, the house underwent an astounding rebirth. The effort was aimed not only at rehabbing the house’s physical structure, but also at honoring its cultural legacy.
The Current State
Today, the house is fully restored and serves as a vibrant arts center, providing a venue for creativity, education, and community engagement. It is also a reminder that we should preserve our stories while we build our future.
THE AUGUST WILSON HOUSE Cultural Significance
Understanding the Cultural Impact of the August Wilson House
The August Wilson House is more than bricks and mortar; it’s a living piece of Pittsburgh history and African-American culture.
Impact on August Wilson’s Writing
The house and its surrounding neighborhood had a significant impact on Wilson’s artistic vision. A number of the characters and stories in his Pittsburgh Cycle plays were influenced by the people and experiences he encountered during his time spent in the Hill District. Plays such as Fences and Joe Turner’s Come and Gone speak to the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of the community.
A Short History of the Black Lives Matter Movement
The house is a critical connector to Pittsburgh’s African-American history. It celebrates the accomplishments of African Americans in shaping the city’s artistic and social landscape while grappling with the hardships they faced, including segregation and economic disparity.”
Legacy Preservation
However, the work to save the August Wilson House is more than just a matter of bricks and mortar; Programs such as workshops, exhibitions, and cultural events continue to share Wilson’s influence with new audiences. In this way, the house continues to be a beacon of hope and creativity.
The August Wilson House as an Arts Hub
The August Wilson House as a Lively Arts Center
The house opened in August with an official title: an arts center, which is a vision realized for a home turned space that aims to be a celebration of creativity and community.
Opening as an Arts Center
The opening was a milestone, developing the house as a focal point for artistic expression. It now hosts events celebrating Wilson’s work and providing a venue for emerging artists.
Community Events and Programs
The arts center provides a number of programs, which include:
- Writing, acting and storytelling workshops.
- Foster exhibitions featuring local artists and Wilson-themed pieces.
- Community conversation about race, history and culture.
These occasions serve to develop skills, create discussion and unify individuals.
Support from the Community
The reimagining of the house, as an arts center, was made possible through collective effort. In a remarkable display of community spirit, the local residents, national figures, and organizations all rallied together, pooling their resources and expertise.
Touring the August Wilson House
How to visit the August Wilson House
The August Wilson House is a can’t-miss stop if you’re visiting Pittsburgh. Here’s what you need to know:
Location and Accessibility
The house is in the heart of the Hill District in Pittsburgh. It is easily reached by car or public transportation, and steps have been taken to make the site accessible to all visitors, including those with mobility challenges.
Admission and Hours
Entry costs: The house has cheap tickets and student/senior discounts
Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tips for Visitors
- Go on a guided tour to hear more about Wilson’s life and the history of the house.
- Be sure to check the calendar for special events or workshops during your visit.
- Visit the Hill District to appreciate the neighborhood’s full cultural background.
When you visit the August Wilson House, you’re walking into history, living history, history that still informs and shapes the future.” Plan your trip today!
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