Marian Anderson performs on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on Easter Sunday in 1939

Today in History: Marian Anderson at the Lincoln Memorial

By
WNYC Newsroom
WNYC News | Jul 13, 2010

On April 9, 1939, Easter Sunday, contralto Marian Anderson gave a concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Anderson had initially hoped to sing in Constitution Hall, but the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) denied the use because she was black. As a result, many resigned from DAR and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and Secretary of the Interior Harold Ickes arranged for Anderson to perform on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial instead. The open-air concert was both symbolic and popular: 75,000 attended in D.C. and millions more listened in on the radio.

Marian Anderson is greeted by Harold L. Ickes, Secretary of the Interior, at the Lincoln Memorial
Marian Anderson is greeted by Harold L. Ickes, Secretary of the Interior, at the Lincoln Memorial

Thanks to Andy Lanset and the New York Public Radio Archives.

 

Profile Image
WNYC Newsroom

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

Top Stories

Rahm Emanuel Says Israel’s Path Is “Not Sustainable Politically.” Plus, the Critic Richard Brody on “The Odyssey”

A likely Democratic presidential candidate says the U.S. must end unconditional support for Israel. Emanuel explains his proposal for Middle East peace, and his position on trans rights.
The New Yorker Radio Hour |

Smoke-filled skies are new normal for NYC summers, experts warn

Climate change has caused wildfires in Canada to grow more frequent and more intense, which creates a viscous cycle as the blazes pump more carbon into the atmosphere.
Gothamist |

From Subpoenas to Cockroaches: Journalist Intimidation 101

Plus, a documentary about the eBay stalking scandal.
On the Media |

Join us for a live series on what it means to make New York more affordable

We’re holding community events across New York City, “In Conversation: The Affordability Series,” through the rest of the year to explore real solutions to issues affecting millions of New Yorkers.
Gothamist |
YOU ARE ONLINE