John Coltrane's Strawberry Mansion Home Undergoes Restoration
John Coltrane’s Strawberry Mansion Home Undergoes Restoration
John Coltrane’s Philadelphia home, located in the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood, is undergoing a remarkable transformation to become a cultural and educational hub celebrating the jazz legend’s legacy. This historic landmark, where Coltrane lived from 1952 to 1958, is being restored and reimagined as a museum and community space.
The rowhouse at 1511 N. 33rd Street was a pivotal place in Coltrane’s life. During his time there, Coltrane studied under Philadelphia music teacher Dennis Sandole, collaborated with pianist Hasaan Ibn Ali, and toured with Earl Bostic and Johnny Hodges. It was also the home where Coltrane confronted personal struggles, leading to a spiritual awakening that inspired his masterpiece Blue Train.
The restoration of the Coltrane House has been a long time coming. Years of legal disputes over ownership and structural disrepair had left the house in jeopardy. However, a recent legal settlement transferred the deed to Coltrane’s descendants, Ravi and Oran Coltrane, who have since formed the nonprofit Coltrane House Philadelphia. With funding from the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund and other supporters, the house is now being stabilized and restored.
The Strawberry Mansion Community Development Corporation (SMCDC) is leading the façade restoration, while plans for interior renovations and programming are underway. The project has also received support from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and other preservation experts.
In October 2025, a day-long celebration marked the progress of the restoration project. The event featured performances by local youth musicians, a benefit concert by Ravi Coltrane, and a public announcement of the next phase of the project. The celebration highlighted the community’s deep connection to Coltrane’s legacy and the importance of preserving this historic site.
While the restoration is expected to continue into 2027, the anticipation surrounding the project are undeniable. Visitors and residents alike can look forward to a space that not only preserves history but also fosters cultural and artistic growth.
John Coltrane’s Strawberry Mansion Home Undergoes Restoration was originally published on rnbphilly.com
