The Marian Anderson Historical Society is dedicated to promoting the late classical singer, who was considered of the most important opera performers of the 20th century, showcasing her Residence as a Museum and supporting the development and performance of Young Classical and Performing Artist Scholars. The organization was founded by Blanche Burton-Lyles and has existed for the past 15 years. The society itself consists of The Marian Anderson Residence Museum at 762 S. Martin St., where Anderson lived for much of her life. Beyond that, the area around these sites has been named the Marian Anderson Village, which proudly boasts flags around the neighborhood. In addition to the birthplace and residence houses, the village contains Marian Anderson’s church, elementary school and a recreational center dedicated to her. The society is working on creating the Marian Anderson Educational Pavilion, which it says is “designed to educate and produce and audio/visual interactive tour of the Marian Anderson Heritage Village.” Aside from merely promoting Anderson through displaying imagery from her life, the society seeks to spread Anderson’s music throughout the world. The scholars’ program frequently supports young classical and opera singers from around the world. These artists perform regularly at events that the society sponsors and many have gone on to more prominent positions
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