Writer Langston Hughes’ boyhood home in Ohio sold in foreclosure, bank to put it on market

Langston Hughes house in Ohio sold in foreclosure

CLEVELAND — A boyhood home of writer Langston Hughes has been sold in foreclosure in Cleveland.

The 2½-story, wood-frame house on the city’s east side was sold at a sheriff’s auction in February for $16,667. Wells Fargo bank plans to put the house on the market.

Hughes was born in Joplin, Mo., and lived in Lincoln, Ill., before moving into the Cleveland house as a teenager around 1917. It was during his time at Cleveland’s Central High School when Hughes saw his work published in the school magazine.

The Academy of American Poets says his novels, plays and poems displayed insightful portrayals of black life in America. He died in 1967 in New York City, where his Harlem residence has landmark status.

Information from: The Plain Dealer, www.cleveland.com