The Corona Collection – Interview with Willie Johnson

The Corona Collection exhibit is now live! The Louis Armstrong House Museum is proud to debut The Corona Collection, a new exhibition that brings Louis and Lucille Armstrong to life through the voices of the neighbors who knew them best. In this first interview, Willie Johnson shares his memories of life in Corona, Queens.

Through heartfelt stories like his, we catch a glimpse of the warmth, humor, and generosity that defined the Armstrongs’ daily lives and lasting impact on their community. The Corona Collection preserves these oral histories as part of the Armstrong Archives, ensuring future generations can experience the Armstrongs not only as global icons, but also as beloved neighbors.

This project was made possible through a 2024 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Beginning October 2, 2025, visitors will be able to explore these remarkable stories firsthand in the new exhibition at the Louis Armstrong House Museum.

Note: the Museum will be closed on Saturday the 4th of October.