Jamaica in Queens in Queens County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Thomas Wright "Fats" Waller 1904-43
Photographed by Devry Becker Jones (CC0), March 7, 2026
1. Thomas Wright "Fats" Waller 1904-43 Marker
The African-American composer, pianist, organist, singer, and bandleader known for his humorous performance style, lived here between 1942 and 1943. A protιgι of James P. Johnson, (founder of the 'stride' school of jazz piano), and mentor to Count Basie, Waller's rhythmically contagious songs include: Ain't Misbehavin' (1929), Honeysuckle Rose (1929), and Jitterbug Waltz (1942).
Erected by New York City Historic Landmarks Preservation Center.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Arts, Letters, Music • Entertainment. In addition, it is included in the New York, New York City Historic Landmarks Preservation Center Cultural Medallions series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1942.
Location. 40° 41.664′ N, 73° 46.679′ W. Marker is in Queens, New York, in Queens County. It is in Jamaica. It is on Sayres Avenue west of 174th Street, on the right when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 173-19 Sayres Ave, Jamaica NY 11433, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 2 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies: Addisleigh Park Historic District (here, next to this marker); Archie Spigner Park (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); a different marker also named Addisleigh Park Historic District (about 500 feet away); a different marker also named Addisleigh Park Historic District (approx. 0.2 miles away); a different marker also named Addisleigh Park Historic District (approx. 0.2 miles away); Valencia Theater (approx. 1.2 miles away); St. Monica's Catholic Church (approx. 1.2 miles away); Prospect Cemetery (approx. 1.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Queens.
Credits. This page was last revised on March 8, 2026. It was originally submitted on March 8, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 12 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on March 8, 2026, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
