Honors and Recognition

Dubbed “The First Lady of Song,” Ella Fitzgerald earned myriad awards for her work. Her musical achievements were celebrated by professional and academic organizations. She was also honored for her philanthropy on behalf of orphaned and disadvantaged children. She established the Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation in 1993, which among its causes helps at-risk children and encourages literacy and musical education.

Keys to cities
1977–1983

This boxed display holds keys to cities presented to Fitzgerald in honor of her accomplishments

Memorex trophy
late 1970s

Fitzgerald received this trophy in appreciation for her appearance in print and TV ads for Memorex recording tape.

NAACP President’s Award
1975

The NAACP, one of America’s oldest civil rights organizations, presented Fitzgerald with its President’s Award.

Postage stamp
1996

The U.S. Postal Service issued a commemorative postage stamp honoring Fitzgerald in 2007. Courtesy of U.S. Postal Service

Telegram
1957

Bandleader and composer Duke Ellington sent this telegram to Fitzgerald, who was performing in Chicago.

Alpha Kappa Alpha trophy
1968

Fitzgerald received this Yellow Basket trophy, alluding to her song A-Tisket, A-Tasket, from the Tau Omega chapter of the national black sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha.