Welcome to the House of Miles East St. Louis, lovingly known as HOME, a place that plays a significant role in the cultural and musical heritage of the United States. Here, within the walls of a modest house in East St. Louis, Illinois, began the journey of one of the most influential figures in jazz history: Miles Davis. This establishment is more than just a building; it’s a repository of stories and sounds that shaped the world of music.
The house, located at 1701 Kansas Avenue, was the childhood home of Miles Dewey Davis III. Born in 1926 in Alton, Illinois, and raised in East St. Louis, Davis was introduced to the trumpet at an early age. His time in this house during the 1920s and 1930s was pivotal, as it was here that he first nurtured his passion for music—a passion that would later lead him to become a key figure in the development of several jazz genres, including cool jazz, hard bop, and jazz fusion.
The House of Miles East St. Louis is undergoing a transformation to become a museum and educational center, preserving the legacy of Davis while inspiring new generations. The project began in earnest in 2011 with the vision of turning the skeletal remains of the house into a vibrant cultural hub. Founders Lauren Parks and Jasper Gery Pearson envision a space that not only celebrates Davis’s achievements but also serves as a community center for learning and creativity.
This transformation is supported by individual donations and grants, including contributions from Lowe’s Home Improvement. The interior, stripped down to its bare bones, is being rebuilt to reflect the style of the 1920s, bringing the past to life for visitors. The museum will house artifacts from Davis’s life and career, offering an intimate glimpse into the early years of a jazz legend.
The broader historical context of this site is intertwined with the story of East St. Louis itself. Once a bustling industrial hub, the city has faced economic challenges over the decades. However, initiatives like HOME aim to revitalize the community by fostering artistic and cultural engagement.
As you explore the House of Miles East St. Louis, imagine the young Miles Davis, trumpet in hand, dreaming of the sounds that would one day captivate audiences worldwide. This house stands as a testament to the enduring power of music and the profound impact one individual can have on the world.
