Alonzo F. and Norris B. Herndon Foundation

Under New Board of Trustees

The Alonzo F. and Norris B. Herndon Foundation is under a new Board of Trustees. The Trustees bring fresh perspectives, and a strong commitment to community to the governance of the Foundation. The Foundation has embarked on a strategic redesign to enhance its impact in the community with re-opening of the Herndon Home as the first step in the redesign process.

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About Herndon Foundation

The Herndons

The Herndons were one of the most prominent Black families in Atlanta’s history.

In 1905, former slave Alonzo Franklin Herndon founded what would become the Atlanta Life Insurance Company.

Adrienne Herndon, Alonzo’s wife, was an actress, professor, and activist. She designed The Herndon Home in the 1900s.

In 1952, Alonzo’s son, Norris B. Herndon, founded The Herndon Foundation, a private foundation based in Atlanta, GA, with a strong history of community impact.

Atlanta Life

The Herndon Home

The Herndon Home, built between 1908 and 1910 was designed by Adrienne NcNeil Herndon, with Alonzo Franklin Herndon acting as general contractor. Construction of the home (except for the plumbing and electrical systems) was performed exclusively by African-American craftsmen. A sterling example of upper income dwellings in the early 1900’s, the Home’s interior draws upon various design traditions, including the renaissance revival forms of the reception hall and dining room, and the Rococo detailing of the music room.

Designated a National Historic Landmark in 2000, the Herndon Home is a lasting tribute to the hard work and talent of the Herndon family.

The Herndon Home is currently undergoing repairs and general maintenance to preserve its historical and cultural significance and to re-open it to the public.

Board of Trustees

The Trustees are Rosemary Parson, Eric Holoman, Stanley Washington, and Ayo Alaran. The Trustees bring fresh perspectives, and a commitment to the community. The Trustees are focused on initiating positive impacts and leveraging The Herndon Home as a beacon of inspiration to all. The Trustees are executing a plan to re-open the Museum for tours!