James Baldwin Lived Here
Historic Village Plaque Ceremony

The impact and influence of American writer James Baldwin (1924-1987) upon the 20th century cannot be overstated, and his legacy is just as resonant today. The essayist, novelist, playwright, poet and civil rights activist lived on Horatio in the late 1950s and early 60s, during one of his most prolific and creative periods, and the Village scene informed and was reflected in his writing and social activism.

Join GVSHP and Two Boots outside 81 Horatio Street to unveil a historic plaque as we celebrate the work and explore the local connections of this essential artist. It’s a fitting coda to the recent citywide “Year of James Baldwin” marking what would have been his 90th year.

Speakers will include 2015 Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Gregory Pardlo; writer Fran Lebowitz; Trevor Baldwin, nephew of James Baldwin; and Max Rudin, publisher of the Library of America.