Dr. Samuel Waymon, the youngest brother of Nina Simone, recently stepped back into the childhood home he shared with the legendary singer and civil rights activist. It was a heartfelt moment for the 81-year-old composer as he reminisced about playing the organ and cooking on the old potbelly stove with their mother in Tryon, North Carolina. The home, where Simone lived from 1933 to 1937, has been lovingly restored after remaining vacant and decaying for over two decades.
The revitalized house, now painted white, retains many of its original elements. Inside, a shadow box displays a piece of the home’s original varnish, and a fragment of old linoleum rests on the new wooden floor, connecting the past to the present. “It feels like time travel,” Waymon shared, awash with memories as he walked the familiar rooms.
In 2017, the house was purchased for $95,000 by a group of Black artists, including Adam Pendleton, Rashid Johnson, Julie Mehretu, and Ellen Gallagher. They view the renovation as a crucial step in recognizing Black history at a time when funding for related initiatives is under threat. Recent political actions have raised concerns about the diminishing acknowledgment of contributions from Black Americans, further highlighting the importance of this restoration.
The project took several years, ultimately costing about $850,000, and was overseen by the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund (AACHAF). They plan to open the site for public visits in 2027, aiming to create a cultural hub surrounding the area.
“By preserving this home, we ensure that future generations understand the roots of these icons and the broader African American experience,” explained Tiffany Tolbert, senior director at AACHAF.
Pendleton first learned about the home in 2016 and felt an immediate connection to its history. He believed it was his responsibility, alongside other artists, to preserve it. This drive led to the collective’s efforts to create a designated space that commemorates Simone’s impact on American culture.
The collective partnered with AACHAF to establish protections for the site, ensuring that it continues to be a space for reflection and celebration. Restoration work included modern updates while mindfully maintaining the home’s historical integrity.
The AACHAF has a history of preserving cultural landmarks associated with influential Black artists, such as John Coltrane and Louis Armstrong. Their efforts showcase the vital role that these spaces play in understanding the cultural narratives of Black Americans.
Waymon believes that if Simone saw the house today, she would feel a mix of astonishment and gratitude for its revival. In a touching tribute, he plans to release a duet of their song “Love Me or Leave Me” in January 2026, blending their voices across time, much like the home unites past and present.
In a world increasingly fractured by divides, these efforts to restore and honor pivotal cultural spaces highlight the importance of remembering our shared history. They remind us that recognizing the past can inspire conversations around identity, purpose, and resilience.
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