Martha Graham honored
Dance legened honored

by Emilia Boehm

A new historical marker has been unveiled on the North Side. Sponsored by the Allegheny City Society, the marker commemorates the life and achievements of pioneering dancer and choreographer Martha Graham (1894-1991). Born on what is now Brighton Place, Graham was raised in Allegheny City (now the North Side).

Her father, Dr. Robert Graham, was a well-known psychiatrist at Dixmont Hospital. The Graham family relocated to southern California when Martha was fourteen; just a few years later, a performance by the company of dance legend Ruth St. Denis inspired Martha to pursue a life in dance. She would go on to compose nearly 200 ballets and create a dance technique renowned for its modern, inventive, and emotional approach. Touring the world with her own company, she received numerous international awards and honors, and is often recognized as one of the foremost artistic forces of the 20th century.


Though her touring did bring her back to Pittsburgh, Martha Graham never again called this area home. Last Saturday, some twenty-five local residents and dance/history enthusiasts gathered to dedicate a historical marker for this famed daughter of Allegheny. The ceremony featured speeches by members of the Allegheny City Society, Senator Jim Ferlo, and Dr. Joyce Henry. A professor emeritus at Ursinus College, Dr. Henry has published several articles on Martha Graham and was also a one-time student of the dancer in New York City. Her presentation at the marker ceremony was made possible by the Pennsylvania Humanities Council.



found this at pgh dish. i had forgotten that i wanted to post about it.

old i tells ya, old i am!