National Public Housing Museum Gains Recognition as Best New Museum Nominee

National Public Housing Museum Gains Recognition

The National Public Housing Museum (NPHM) has received a notable nomination for the USA Today's 10BEST Readers' Choice Awards, competing for the title of Best New Museum. This recognition underscores the museum's pivotal role in safeguarding and narrating the essential stories of public housing, a topic often overlooked in the broader spectrum of American history.

Established to commemorate the rich narratives of individuals who inhabited public housing, the NPHM is nestled in the last remaining structure of the historic Jane Addams Homes in Chicago. This space has not only been restored but has metamorphosed into a sanctuary for historical reflection, celebrating over a century's worth of experiences from the 10 million individuals who have lived in public housing across the nation.

The nomination comes as the museum marks its first anniversary, having opened its doors to the public in April 2025, following nearly two decades of planning and advocacy. Founded by former residents of public housing, the NPHM stands as the first cultural institution devoted to exploring the complexities of the American experience within public housing.

Visitors to the museum can engage with various art installations and exhibits, including historic apartment tours that showcase personal anecdotes from residents who lived in the Jane Addams Homes from the 1930s to the 1970s. The venue is designed not only to present artifacts but also to spark conversations around housing policy and its impacts on the lives of individuals.

One of the highlights of the museum is the restored Animal Court, adorned with whimsical stone sculptures created by artist Edgar Miller. The REC Room, curated by DJ Spinderella of Salt-N-Pepa fame, pays homage to legendary musicians who once called public housing their home. Residents like Elvis Presley, Curtis Mayfield, Barbra Streisand, and Kenny Rogers are celebrated through music as visitors delve into the cultural significance of these neighborhoods.

Another significant exhibit, Care to Look, showcases artifacts meticulously preserved during the museum's renovation. It includes items such as mailboxes, intercoms, and a medicine cabinet, which serve as poignant reminders of the building's past as a home, sparking nostalgia and connection among visitors.

The outdoor installation, Resilient Hues, welcomes guests with vibrant, colorful artwork inspired by paint chips collected from the building after its last residents relocated, emphasizing the life and vibrancy that once filled the now-quiet halls.

Voting for the USA Today Readers' Choice Awards runs from November 24 to December 22, 2025, allowing individuals to support this significant project and its mission to foster a deeper understanding of public housing. The NPHM encourages people to participate in this momentous event by casting their votes at 10best.usatoday.com.

For those interested in exploring this unique museum, further information can be found on their official site at www.nphm.org. This institution not only preserves history but also inspires action towards housing justice, making it a vital component of the community.

As the National Public Housing Museum continues to evolve, its presence as a cultural landmark reminds us of the importance of memory, community, and the ongoing conversation about housing equity in America.