John W. Coltrane (1926-1967)
Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
A pioneering African-American jazz musician, composer, saxophonist. Coltrane used African and Indian elements to create a distinctive style which at first shocked audiences but ultimately gained wide acceptance. He lived here, 1952-1958.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
John Coltrane lived in this Strawberry Mansion neighborhood house from 1952 to 1958, during the formative years when a young saxophonist was becoming one of the most important voices in jazz. He would go on to weave African and Indian musical elements into a searching, spiritual style that first startled listeners before it reshaped the music entirely. Philadelphia was the crucible where his restless artistry took form.
Why it matters
Coltrane transformed American music, and this modest rowhouse marks where a genius of twentieth-century jazz came of age.
Plan your visit
NearbyMake a day of it — museums, food, and places to stay near this marker.
Museums & culture
- African American Museum in Philadelphia2.7 mi away · 701 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- National Constitution Center2.8 mi away · 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Independence Visitor Center2.9 mi away · 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Bridgette Mayer2.9 mi away · 709 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Liberty Bell Center2.9 mi away · 526 Market Street, Philadelphia
- Congress Hall3.0 mi away · Philadelphia, PA
Attractions
- Discovery Center at East Park Reservoir0.3 mi away
- Pennsylvania Railroad, Connecting Railway Bridge0.4 mi away
- Philadelphia Zoo0.7 mi away
- Rocky Steps1.2 mi away
- American Bandstand2.0 mi away
- The Universal Sphere2.0 mi away
Food & drink
- Burger King2.8 mi away
- Philly Pretzel Factory2.8 mi away
- Dunkin'2.8 mi away · 634 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Munchie’s Cafe2.8 mi away · 728 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- El Azteca2.9 mi away
- Time & Peace2.9 mi away · 36 South 7th Street, Philadelphia, PA
Places to stay
- Days Inn Philadelphia Convention Center - Philadelphia2.3 mi away · 1227 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Four Points by Sheraton Philadelphia City Center2.3 mi away · 1201 Race Street, Philadelphia
- The Notary Hotel2.4 mi away · 21 North Juniper Street, Philadelphia
- Residence Inn Philadelphia Center City2.4 mi away · 1 East Penn Square, Philadelphia, PA
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia - Convention Center, PA2.4 mi away · 1200 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Philadelphia Marriott Downtown2.4 mi away · 1201 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
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Related people
- · John W. Coltrane
Themes & tags
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