Full Breakdown
The First Wedding at August Wilson's Childhood Home
2/19/2026, 1:18:21 AM
A Historic Celebration in the Hill District
On November 8, 2025, Reggie Howze and Shawna Bridgett Howze made history by becoming the first couple to marry inside the August Wilson House, a modest brick row house located at 1727 Bedford Avenue in Pittsburgh's Hill District. This event marked a significant moment not only for the couple but also for the community, as the house serves as a symbol of the neighborhood's rich cultural heritage and the legacy of playwright August Wilson.
The Hill District's Cultural Legacy
Reggie Howze, who has lived in the Hill District since his birth in 1945, recalls the neighborhood during its cultural peak, describing it as a vibrant hub akin to "Las Vegas." The area was known for its jazz clubs, including the Crawford Grill, and a self-sufficient economy with numerous Black-owned businesses. However, this thriving community began to decline in the mid-1950s when the city used eminent domain to clear 95 acres for the construction of the Civic Arena, displacing approximately 8,000 residents and demolishing over 1,000 buildings.
Reggie Howze's Commitment to Preservation
After spending decades away from Pittsburgh, Howze returned in 2023 and took on the role of caretaker for the August Wilson House. Alarmed by the state of the house during renovations, he advocated for better preservation efforts, leading to the replacement of contractors. His dedication to the house earned him recognition, culminating in the proclamation of "Reggie Howze Sr. Day" by the City of Pittsburgh on August 17, 2022. Howze emphasizes that Wilson never intended for his childhood home to become a mere museum; instead, he envisioned it as a functional space for community engagement.
The Wedding and Its Significance
The wedding of Reggie and Shawna Bridgett Howze inside the August Wilson House symbolized a return to the house's original purpose as a lived domestic space. Howze expressed a belief that Wilson's spirit was present during the ceremony, reinforcing the connection between the couple's celebration and the cultural history of the Hill District. The house, now a National Historic Landmark, hosts various community events, playwriting workshops, and oral history projects, ensuring that the memories of the neighborhood are preserved.
Looking Forward
As the Hill District continues to evolve, Howze remains committed to his role as a steward of its history. He reflects on the ongoing debates about equity and belonging in the neighborhood, emphasizing the importance of remembering the past while embracing the future. Today, he balances his community efforts with personal pursuits, including competitive power walking and writing a book on healthy living.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I want people to do a double take when they come here. I wanted it to look as good as a Carnegie Library,” — Reggie Howze
- “August never wanted his house to be a shrine or a museum,” — Reggie Howze
- “If I close my eyes, I can feel the Hill District come alive again.” — Reggie Howze
The wedding at the August Wilson House serves as a poignant reminder of the neighborhood's vibrant past and the ongoing efforts to revitalize its cultural significance.
