4/21/2021

Germantown Hidden Gem: The Black Writers Museum

Germantown Hidden Gem: The Black Writers Museum

5800 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19144

Situated in the Northwest end of Philadelphia, the Germantown neighborhood is rich with both history and character. Home to over 48,000 residents, Germantown has scalable plans for growth, revitalization, and success. Founded in 1683, Germantown is one of the few neighborhoods that still has homes with original charm & character along with trails & parks allowing you to stay connected to nature while escaping the demands of the city. It has also played a significant role in American History as it was the birthplace of the American Antislavery movement.

Nestled in the middle of Vernon Park in West Germantown lies the Vernon House. The Vernon House is one of a series of Philadelphia’s National landmarks overflowing with art, history, and culture in the heart of Germantown. Inside of the Vernon House is the Black Writers Museum. The only museum of its kind, the Black Writers Museum showcases exhibits of classic and contemporary black literature and its authors.

Its current exhibit exposes its visitors to the Black Arts Movement. Visitors get to see firsthand how African American musicians, poets, artists, and activists told the story of the African American ways of life during the 1960’s and 1970’s. I was so proud to see black people, black faces, black music, and black living celebrated and lifted up, which is what made the blacks arts movement so special. The movement was birthed to bring a sense of black pride back into the African American community.

The Black Writers Museum offers both guided and self-guided tours. It is a great place to visit, solo or with a group, to learn more about the African American experience told by African Americans. The park is family friendly as well has it does have a play area for children. Recently reopening to the public in March 2020, the museum hours M-T Appointment only, Wed-Friday: 10am-5pm, & Sat-11am-4pm. They also have great plans for summer and fall community events which you can learn more about on their website here blackwritersmuseum.com.

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Written by Germantown resident Juanita Jackson, Realtor at the Condo Shops, Keller Williams Philadelphia. Contact her here.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Juanita loves everything Philly, from cheesesteaks and pretzels to old city charm and architecture. After studying Fashion Design and obtaining her MBA, Juanita pursued a career that allowed her to utilize her creativity, leadership, and strategic marketing skills to enhance client satisfaction. Her Passion of providing exceptional service to her clients naturally carried over when her desire to focus on real estate began to unfold. Refocusing her career with the goal of transforming lives and communities through real estate one relationship at a time, Juanita joined Keller Williams Realty- an industry leader in the Spring of 2018 and during the Summer of 2019 become a member of the The Condo Shop Team-#1 Team in the KW Greater PA Region in 2018.

Juanita’s entrepreneurial spirit coupled with her comprehensive knowledge of industry trends makes her an asset to clients- sellers, buyers, and investors alike. Her mission is to provide stellar personalized service, neighborhood knowledge, and constant support throughout your entire real estate experience while building lasting relationships. When you choose to work with Juanita, you gain a trusted advisor who encompasses integrity, offers superior customer service, delivers effective communication, and utilizes strong negotiation skills.

A member of the National Coalition of 100 Black Woman Juanita has a passion for serving and advocating for women and girls. She is also a member of the Missionary Board at her church and loves to minister to her congregation and others through praise dance. She’s an identical twin the third of six siblings and loves spending time with family. Juanita currently residents in the Historic Germantown section of Philadelphia. She is recently married to her loving husband Brian and has an adorable cat named Logan.