Today, we are proud to announce a milestone in our journey to honor Atlanta’s rich civil rights heritage: 220 Sunset Avenue has officially received historic designation. This recognition is more than symbolic — it cements the building’s role in preserving the story of leadership, family, and community on the historic Westside. For the Westside Future Fund (WFF), it’s a powerful affirmation of our mission: to preserve and restore the rich legacy of the community while building for its future.
A Home Steeped in History
Built in 1949 by Rev. Maynard Jackson Sr., 220 Sunset Avenue was more than a family home: it was the cradle of a legacy. Rev. Jackson and his wife, Dr. Irene Dobbs Jackson, raised their children there, among them Maynard Jr. who would go on to become Atlanta’s first Black mayor.
This three-story building also provided affordable, dignified housing for faculty and staff affiliated with the Atlanta University Center, long before WFF’s involvement. Adjacent to the Martin Luther King Jr. family home at 234 Sunset, the building occupies a deeply symbolic block in Vine City’s history.
A New Chapter
In 2020, The King Center sold 220 Sunset Avenue to WFF, marking the start of a new chapter in its story. WFF took on a comprehensive restoration alongside partners to bring the building back to life.
This restoration set out to ensure that the legacy of the Jackson family and rich history of this block of Vine City would be preserved for generations.
Following the restoration, 220 Sunset has reopened as affordable rental housing for Spelman College faculty and staff through a transformative partnership with WFF, tied directly to the organization’s signature “Home on the Westside” initiative. Lease terms are designed thoughtfully to encourage long-term residency and even offer a pathway to homeownership.
Securing the Future, Rooted in History
Historic designation of 220 Sunset builds a bridge between history and opportunity. For WFF, this moment showcases the power of preservation to advance affordable housing, community stability, and intergenerational legacy.
By rooting deeply in our shared history, we reaffirm a future where legacy families and new generations can thrive side by side.
WFF is incredibly grateful to all of the partners who brought this vision to life. Together, we are ensuring that places like 220 Sunset Avenue remain living landmarks, honoring the past and serving the future of the historic Westside.