Paul Robeson (1898-1976)
Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
A Rutgers athlete and Columbia law graduate, Robeson won renown as a singer and actor. He was a noted interpreter of Negro spirituals. His career suffered because of his political activism, and he lived his last years here in retirement.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
Paul Robeson was a rare figure of towering talent — a football star at Rutgers, a Columbia-trained lawyer, and then a world-renowned concert singer and actor celebrated for his interpretations of African American spirituals. His outspoken activism on race and labor drew fierce backlash during the Cold War, and his career and travel were curtailed for years. He spent his final years in quiet retirement at this Philadelphia home.
Why it matters
Robeson's life reveals both the heights a Black American artist could reach and the price exacted for political dissent in mid-century America, making him an enduring symbol of principled defiance.
Plan your visit
NearbyMake a day of it — museums, food, and places to stay near this marker.
Museums & culture
- Bridgette Mayer3.7 mi away · 709 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- African American Museum in Philadelphia3.7 mi away · 701 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Congress Hall3.8 mi away · Philadelphia, PA
- Liberty Bell Center3.8 mi away · 526 Market Street, Philadelphia
- Independence Visitor Center3.8 mi away · 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Independence Hall3.8 mi away · 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Attractions
- American Bandstand0.5 mi away
- Philadelphia Zoo1.7 mi away
- Pennsylvania Railroad, Connecting Railway Bridge2.0 mi away
- Rocky Steps2.3 mi away
- Discovery Center at East Park Reservoir2.4 mi away
- The Universal Sphere2.7 mi away
Food & drink
- Burger King3.6 mi away
- Philly Pretzel Factory3.6 mi away
- Munchie’s Cafe3.6 mi away · 728 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Fat Salmon3.6 mi away · 719 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- El Azteca3.7 mi away
- Talula's Daily3.7 mi away · 208 West Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA
Places to stay
- Cambria Hotel Philadelphia Downtown - Center City3.1 mi away · 219 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Philadelphia Center City3.1 mi away · 237 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Residence Inn Philadelphia Center City3.1 mi away · 1 East Penn Square, Philadelphia, PA
- Holiday Inn Express3.2 mi away · 1305-11 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- The Notary Hotel3.2 mi away · 21 North Juniper Street, Philadelphia
- Fairfield Inn & Suites3.2 mi away · 261 South 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA
Places data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Hours and details change — call ahead.
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Related people
- · Paul Robeson
Themes & tags
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