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A historic tan Chesterfield leather sofa once furnished Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s guest suite in Harry Belafonte's New York City apartment, where these two influential figures engaged in profound late-night conversations during King's visits. Documented in "Following Harry" (2024), the significant piece later adorned Belafonte's Times Square office.

Their relationship began in 1956 when King reached out to Belafonte, initiating a deep bond that endured until King's assassination in 1968. Throughout their twelve year friendship, Belafonte served as a crucial ally in planning and publicizing critical civil rights events that defined the movement, including the historic 1963 March on Washington and the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches. 

He occassionally acted as an unofficial liaison between King and the Kennedy brothers during this tumultuous period. In his memoir "My Song" (2011), Belafonte described their relationship as one of profound trst and love, referring to King as a "pure spiritual force" whose values -- commitment to the poor, sense on justice, and remarkable humility-- deeply transformed Belafonte's own worldview.

Belafonte's commitment to civil rights extended beyond his work with King. He also maintained a strong bond with Rosa Parks, visiting her many times here at the O Musem. Their meaningful connection is documented in our founder H.H. Leonards' book "Beyond the Bus".

King's compassionate attributes and selfless devotion to equality left an indelible impression, inspiring Belafonte to remain steadfastly dedicated to King's activist missions and his philosophy of nonviolent resistance through his life.