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Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute (#55)

Built in 1915, this building was formerly the Jewish Synagogue of Chevra Biku Cholim. It became the Yesler-Atlantic Community Center in 1972 under the Model Cities Program and was renamed in 1973 for Harlem Renaissance poet, playwright, and author Langston Hughes. The vision of this historic Seattle landmark is to cultivate and showcase Black brilliance in the community.

Images

View from Yesler shows the sign marquee that regularly updates to showcase programming at the site. Photo by Michael B. Maine. Wing Luke Museum Collection.

Entrance along 17th Avenue South with nearby Seattle Parks and Recreation sign reflects the building’s stewardship by the City of Seattle. Photo by Michael B. Maine. Wing Luke Museum Collection.

The building’s architecture, including a dome rising 70 feet above street level, reflects its origins as a synagogue that once seated up to 1,400. Photo by Michael B. Maine. Wing Luke Museum Collection.

Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute (#55) is part of the following tour legs:

Douglass-Truth Library Segment

Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute (#55) is part of the following tours:

Redlining Heritage Trail