Marian Anderson Mural Planned For Kennedy Park In Danbury

DANBURY, CT – Mayor Mark Boughton has announced plans for a mural downtown to honor the legacy of civil rights leader, singer and Danbury resident Marian Anderson. The mural will be placed on the wall behind the Kennedy Park fountain (300 Main Street). The wall is currently dressed with a Main Street mural by local artist Joe DiGuiseppi.

One of Anderson's most famous performances was on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on Easter Sunday, April 9, 1939 to 75,000 people and millions more via radio. This performance was arranged by Eleanor Roosevelt after the Daughters of the American Revolution refused to allow Ms. Anderson to sing to an integrated audience in Constitution Hall because of her race.

Anderson and her husband Orpheus H. Fisher purchased their 100-acre farm in Danbury. During her time here, she sat on the board of the Danbury Music Centre. In turn, the DMC's recital hall was named after her. The singer was a large supporter of the arts in the area, as well as a supporter of the Danbury Chapter of the NAACP.

Danbury will be calling on local artists to submit renderings and quotes that feature Anderson's achievements and life in Danbury. The Danbury Museum & Historical Society will offer the chosen artist a look at Danbury's collection of Anderson’s personal belongings including gowns she sewed herself for several performances and a look into her studio that now sits on the Danbury Museum property.

The majority of funding for this project has been donated by Savings Bank of Danbury. The final mural will be decided in cooperation with the building's property owner Joseph DaSilva and CityCenter Danbury.

"Savings Bank of Danbury is honored to work with the Mayor’s office and the City on this important project," said Martin G. Morgado, president and CEO of Savings Bank of Danbury. "Danbury is a community that is rich in history, and this mural will honor and illustrate Marian Anderson's legacy and contributions here in Danbury as well as our nation."