Arna Wendell Bontemps Museum

Arna Wendell Bontemps Museum

Arna Bontemps - a noted Black poet, author, anthologist, librarian - was born in Alexandria, Louisiana on October 13, 1902. He is credited with writing over 20 books, plays, and anthologies and was considered the leading authority on the Harlem Renaissance.

The Museum is the restored childhood home of Arna Bontemps - poet, author, anthologist, and librarian - who was considered the leading authority of the Harlem Renaissance. The home was rescued, relocated, restored, and established as the first African American Museum in Louisiana.

Since its opening in August of 1992, the Museum has become a nationally recognized treasured landmark and a model institution that serves a cross-cultural community.

Our mission is to further the literary legacy of Arna Bontemps and to promote awareness of his history and influence, through offering programs in the Humanities and Arts that include preserving artifacts, presenting exhibits, sponsoring educational programs, and hosting cultural activities.