Even though Martin Luther King Day is on Monday (Jan. 19), we’re still celebrating the civil rights icon on what would’ve been his 97th birthday. Specifically, let’s dive into his childhood home, which undoubtedly made him into one of the most important historic figures in history.
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Located on Auburn Ave in Atlanta, the home where King spent the first 12 years of his life is an integral part of the southern Black community. Millions come from around the world to tour the special home. Unfortunately, tours are paused because of renovations. But don’t worry, The Root has you with our own inside look of MLK’s home. Just take a look!
King’s Auburn Ave Home
The home was reportedly built in 1895 and purchased by King’s grandmother in 1909. The civil rights leader was born just 20 years later on Jan. 15.
Living Room
Before there was television, smartphones and speakers, the King family reportedly spent much time in their family room talking and playing music.
King’s Piano
When you enter the home, you’re greeted by a magnificence piano in the family room. According to the National Park Service, the piano is chipped after a youth King repeatedly took a hammer to the keys … Clearly, he wasn’t a fan of playing the grand instrument.
Dining Room
According to the National Park Service, MLK’s favorite dinner meal was fried chicken, black-eyed peas, collard greens and cornbread.
Kitchen
The King family was very close-knit. It’s in this home that experts say sowed the seeds for King’s future passion for civil rights.
Portrait of Martin Luther King Sr.
A portrait of Martin Luther King Sr. is visible in the home. Here’s a fun fact for you! Dr. King was originally named Michael King Jr., after his father. But when MLK Sr. changed his first name to Martin, MLK Jr. also took on the name.
The Second Floor
The second floor of the King house was closed off the visitors for years citing renovations and upgrades. Now, folks can come from all over the world to view the entire home.
King’s Birth Room
This is the room where Dr. King was born in.
MLK’s Bedroom
King and his brother’s room was the perfect place for the boys to play around and share their love for baseball.
Main Bedroom
This is where King’s parents stayed. The family moved from their home on Auburn Ave when King was 12 years old.
Jumping Out the Window
Before the family moved, King reportedly jumped out of his family home’s window on the second floor in an alleged attempt to end his life. He did so in response to learning of his grandmother’s death, according to the Manhattan Times News.
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