Urban Core in Jacksonville in Duval County, Florida — The American South (South Atlantic)
John Rosamond Johnson
Photographed By Brandon D Cross, April 19, 2020
1. John Rosamond Johnson Marker
On this site, in a small frame house, John Rosamond Johnson was born on August 11, 1873. Rosamond was a genuine prodigy, teaching himself piano by age 4. In 1890, he attended the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. He then later studied music in London as well.
In 1900, he put the words of his brother’s poem, “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” to music. This became first the unofficial, then official Black National Anthem.
Rosamond moved to New York after 1900, where he became a very successful song writer, composer, author and performer. He wrote over 200 popular songs and four operettas. Additionally, he arranged over 150 Negro spirituals and authored four books.
J. Rosamond Johnson’s works are enshrined in a Special Collection at Yale University.
Erected by Durkeeville Historical Society.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Arts, Letters, Music • Entertainment.
Location. 30° 19.802′ N, 81° 40.205′ W. Marker is in Jacksonville, Florida, in Duval County. It is in Urban Core. Marker is at the intersection of Lee Street and Houston Street, on the left when traveling north on Lee Street. Marker
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. James Weldon Johnson (here, next to this marker); Fort Hatch (about 600 feet away, measured in a direct line); Old Brewster Hospital (about 700 feet away); The Line of Intrenchments (about 800 feet away); United States Railroad Administration Locomotive (approx. 0.3 miles away); El Modelo Cigar Factory (approx. 0.4 miles away); "Old Stanton" High School (approx. 0.4 miles away); Second Missionary Baptist Church of LaVilla (approx. half a mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Jacksonville.
Photographed By Brandon D Cross, April 19, 2020
2. John Rosamond Johnson Marker
Photographed By Brandon D Cross, April 19, 2020
3. Photo Insert: John Rosamond Johnson
Photographed By Brandon D Cross, April 19, 2020
4. Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park sign
Credits. This page was last revised on February 3, 2023. It was originally submitted on April 20, 2020, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida. This page has been viewed 231 times since then and 23 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on April 20, 2020, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.
