Mozart C. Perry, solo pianist for program "Jazz Greats of Toledo" honoring Art Tatum, at Kent Branch Library, October 13, 1995 Photo courtesy Art Tatum African American Resource Center
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Art Tatum African American Resource Center
The Toledo-Lucas County Public Library
established the Art Tatum African American Resource Center in
1989. The Tatum Center, which shares space with the Kent
Branch Library in Toledo's historic Old West End, evolved
after extensive local and regional research revealed a need
for an African American cultural center for Lucas County
residents. Toledo's contribution to the field of African
American accomplishments is far greater than its 380,000
population would indicate. Among Toledo's talented African
Americans are: jazz pianist Art Tatum; artist and sculptor
LeMaxie Glover; attorney J.B. Simmons, who was the first
African American to serve on the Toledo city council; and Ella
P. Stewart, the first African American female to graduate from
the University of Philadelphia as a pharmacist, who opened the
first pharmacy owned and operated by an African American in
Toledo.
The Art Tatum Center's mission is to provide
cultural, educational and historical information on unique African
American cultural heritage and experiences. The resource center's
name was chosen following an essay contest. Tatum, an
internationally known jazz pianist famous for his unique piano
technique and inventive improvisations, had never been recognized
by his hometown, Toledo. By naming the center for Art Tatum, the
center recognizes his accomplishments, personal perseverance and
creative talent. These are the same qualities that the center hopes
to inspire and encourage in contemporary citizens.
The Art Tatum African American Resource Center's
collection contains 84,000 books, ranging in subject from Black
biblical heritage to slavery to the Harlem Renaissance. The
collection also includes magazines, journals, microfiche, audio and
videotapes, and CDs. The center also provides on-site cultural
programs, sponsors the city-wide Kwanza festival, and holds an
annual jazz concert. It also has a Tatum Gallery of the Arts for
local artists.
Project documentation includes a seven-page report,
PC disc, newspaper clippings, program flyers and pictures.
Originally submitted by: Marcy Kaptur, Representative (9th District).
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The Local Legacies project provides a "snapshot" of American Culture as it was expressed in spring of 2000. Consequently, it is not being updated with new or revised information with the exception of "Related Website" links.
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