Malcolm X's Roxbury Home Named As Endangered Historic Place

ROXBURY (CBS) - The Malcolm X Ella Little Collins House will be named as one of America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places of 2012, Mayor Tom Menino announced Monday.

The Malcolm X Ella Little Collins House, located at on 72 Dale Street in Roxbury, is the last known surviving residence of Malcolm X.

On Wednesday, dozens gathered at the house showing that Malcolm X meant a lot to many people throughout Boston.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Carl Stevens reports.

"Malcolm X was really a son of Roxbury. He went on and he transformed his life right here on these streets and became an international and worldwide influence. He taught people to have a greater sense of pride in themselves in spite of their initial circumstances," said Boston City Councilor Charles Yancey.

Yancey, as an African American leader in the city of Boston, remembers the great impact Malcolm X had on him.

"I met Malcolm X twice in my life when I was a little boy. He towered over everyone physically and intellectually. And I believe that his role in history was one that's very meaningful to not only African Americans, but everyone who believes in human rights. He certainly gave me a greater sense of pride and self-worth when I was growing up as a teenager in Roxbury. He's done the same for people all around the world," said Councilor Yancey.

Malcolm X's great nephew Arjuna Collins also recalls the importance of his great uncle's Boston legacy.

"Not many people know this is the hub of where a lot of his intelligence, his mind, his charisma, his charm was developed," said Collins.

The fact that the National Trust for Historic Preservation has put this house on its list of America's 11 most endangered historic places should free up some restoration money.

It is hoped that $750,000 will be raised to restore the building.