UPDATE: Urgent renovations have begun at the historic home of jazz legend John Coltrane in Philadelphia’s Strawberry Mansion neighborhood. A new nonprofit, formed by Coltrane’s descendants, has taken charge of the property, which is set to become a significant cultural space.
The house, located at 1511 N. 33rd St., has faced years of legal disputes and severe structural damage. However, a recent settlement has secured the home’s title for Coltrane’s sons, Ravi and Oran Coltrane, allowing for the much-needed repairs to commence. “This definitely is a long time coming,” said Ravi Coltrane, emphasizing the importance of preserving his father’s legacy.
According to sources, the Strawberry Mansion Community Development Corporation has already started work on the building’s façade, with plans to repair the roof and rear wall soon. Funding has been bolstered by a $200,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, aimed at stabilizing the historic site. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support historic Black sites, showcasing the significance of Coltrane’s home.
The property was severely damaged by a fire two years ago, and the restoration is expected to be completed by 2026. The Coltrane family has expressed hope that the house will serve as a museum, educating future generations about the legendary musician’s impact. “My kids could come, my grandkids could come, and they could see this home,” Ravi Coltrane stated, reflecting on the emotional significance of the site.
The ownership battle began when the deed to the house was transferred in March 2024, after a court ruling favored the Coltrane family. They asserted that the previous owner, Norman Gadson, did not hold legal rights to the property. Gadson had purchased the home in 2004 from Mary Alexander, known affectionately as “Cousin Mary,” with intentions of transforming it into a jazz museum.
With the nonprofit Coltrane House Philadelphia now in place, the family is moving forward to ensure the house’s preservation. “It’s an important investment, but it’s a modest investment,” said Kathleen Hennessy, Ravi Coltrane’s wife and vice president of Friends of the Coltrane House. She highlighted the National Trust’s expertise as crucial for the restoration efforts.
Community support for the Coltrane house is palpable. At a recent rally, Tonnetta Graham, president of the Strawberry Mansion CDC, remarked on the revitalization of the area, saying, “In Strawberry Mansion, to have had so much taken away from us and so much disinvestment, to see this revitalization here — that’s what I celebrate.”
As the 100th anniversary of John Coltrane’s birth approaches on September 23, 2026, anticipation builds for the completion of the renovations. While Hennessy doubts they will be ready in time for the centennial, she is optimistic about welcoming the public by 2027.
With renewed efforts underway, the Coltrane house stands as a beacon of hope and cultural pride. Lovett Hines, former artistic director of the Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz, expressed the excitement surrounding the project, stating, “Now I can hold up real hip, wear my dark glasses and say, ‘We have it. Right now. Come to Philadelphia.’”
Stay tuned for more updates as this historic site undergoes its transformation into a museum honoring one of jazz’s greatest musicians.
