Many people are familiar with the Harlem Renaissance, the vibrant period of Black arts and culture coursing through the streets of Harlem, NY in the mid 20th century. It may surprise you to learn however, that a prominent member was born and raised right here in West Philadelphia, and was buried here at The Woodlands Cemetery in 2019. Her story is remembered by many, but not very well known. With the help of her family and the Blockson Library at Temple University, we’re able to share her story with you.
Leontyne Watts was born in Philadelphia on April 29, 1919. She was educated as a young child by her mother, and then went on to graduate from West Philadelphia High School and later Strayor Business College and the Philadelphia Settlement House. She was born with musical talent that was recognized at a young age. She sang in her church choir at Mount Zion Baptist Church and sang with her four brothers as part of a quartet.
Leontyne followed her musical dreams to New York City in 1944, entered the theater world and joined the ongoing Harlem Renaissance movement. Leontyne performed in Off Broadway shows, posed professionally at the Arts Students’ League, and went on a West Coast tour as a singer and dancer.
She was married for 15 years to a fellow performer and visual artist, and after their divorce, took the opportunity to create a one-woman show and tour through Europe. A gifted linguist in addition to being a talented musician, she successfully took her performance through France, Belgium, Switzerland and Lebanon.
When she returned to the US she purchased a home in St. Albans, NY and joined the robust artistic community there. She continued touring in shows around the US, wrote music and poetry, taught children’s choir, and sang with a group known as Voices Incorporated. Voices Incorporated was initially a fundraising program for the NAACP, and you can listen to some of their music here.
As an active member of her community, Leontyne spent over 20 years teaching practical skills such as how to pursue employment and how to succeed at job interviews to young people who had dropped out of school. Her activism was far reaching into the arts and the church, to lifting up members of her community, supporting the efforts of the NAACP, and volunteering with the Black Arts National Diaspora.
In 1983 she added to her artistic achievements in dance, singing, and acting, by writing a book titled “In Love With Life,” which featured her original music and poetry.
Leontyne Watts contributed to her community her entire life. We are honored to be able to share her story with the West Philadelphia and Woodlands community. You can visit her gravesite in Section K which is easily identifiable by the beautiful memorial there featuring her portrait.
Thank you to the Blockson Library for contributing photographs of Leontyne Watts, H.C. Wood for creating her unique memorial, and to Cynthia Watts and Barbara Henry for documenting Leontyne Watts’ story, and choosing The Woodlands as her final resting place.
To learn more about Leontyne Watts, please visit the Blockson Library.