Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all New York City places

New York City, New York / Museums

Langston Hughes House

Visit the former home of James Langston Hughes, a towering figure of the Harlem Renaissance. This historic Italianate brownstone serves as a museum and cultural center dedicated to Black identity and literature.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
Langston Hughes House
langstonhugheshouse.com, og_image_langstonhugheshouse.com

What is the Langston Hughes House known for?

It is a historic landmark and house museum dedicated to preserving the legacy of Langston Hughes, a leading figure of the Harlem Renaissance. The site serves as a cultural and educational center focused on Hughes's impact on Black identity and American literature.

Where is it located?

The house is located at 20 East 127th Street in Harlem, New York City.

What can I see inside the museum?

One room displays Hughes's personal belongings, including original poetry-related articles, photographs, and typewriters.

Did Langston Hughes actually live here?

Yes, Hughes lived on the top floor of the brownstone for the last 20 years of his life, from 1947 until his death in 1967. He wrote major works here, such as "I Wonder as I Wander" and "Montage of a Dream Deferred."

What is the history of the building?

Constructed in 1869 by real estate developers James Meagher and Thomas Hanson, the house is a three-story Italianate-style brownstone designed by architect Alexander Wilson.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Located at 20 East 127th Street, the Langston Hughes House is a three-story Italianate-style brownstone that serves as a sanctuary for the legacy of one of America's most influential poets. The residence was constructed in 1869 by real estate developers James Meagher and Thomas Hanson, and was designed by architect Alexander Wilson. James Langston Hughes, a central figure of the Harlem Renaissance, resided in this home from 1947 until his death in 1967. He utilized the top floor as his personal workroom, where he authored major literary works such as "I Wonder as I Wander" and "Montage of a Dream Deferred." Recognized for its immense cultural value, the building was designated a New York City landmark on August 11, 1981, and was subsequently listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Today, the site functions as an educational center and the home of the I, Too, Arts Collective, which provides workshops and poetry salons to nurture creativity in underrepresented communities. Visitors can explore a dedicated space featuring Hughes's personal belongings. This intimate display includes his original typewriters, poetry-related articles, and photographs that offer a rare glimpse into the private life of the visionary author.

Visitor tips

  • Check for current poetry salons or workshops hosted by the I, Too, Arts Collective before visiting.
  • Allow at least an hour to view the personal belongings and original typewriters in the display room.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the house is located in a residential part of Harlem.

Nearby context

The house is situated in the heart of Harlem, a neighborhood synonymous with the Harlem Renaissance and the intellectual awakening of Black identity in New York City.

Sources

Evidence and links