What is your name/location?
Herve Tennessee / New York, NY
Tell us a bit about yourself:
I’m a first-generation Haitian-American. My parents immigrated from Haiti in the 1980s to Boston, Massachusetts. I was raised in a huge family of 7 siblings with both active parents working long hours to support us all. My father was security officer growing up and my mother was a nurse.
After my college years, I used my talent (architecture and interior design) and skills to become an entrepreneur. I am the artistic director of The TennCo Creatives. Being a professional organizer (The TennCo Design) during the day and an event producer (Dorian’s Gilded Society) at night is a lot of work but I am full of joy doing what I love.
I am grateful that my parents instilled in me the spirit of hard work, honest living, and to take pride in my accomplishments.
I am a historian and an avid learner of history and religious history. Besides the beauty of buildings of the past, I enjoy learning about the how, why, who and when.
The courage of immigrants inspires me, and I am fascinated by their stories of bravery.
How long have you been a member of the Tenement Museum?
Since December 2023.
What was your first interaction with the Tenement Museum/what drew you here?
I’ve always loved history and architecture. I found out about the Tenement Museum through my research and quickly joined. I enjoy the tours, the shop and the people of LES.
Does the Museum make you reflect on any of your own family stories?
Yes! My first and favorite tour was 100 Years Apart, which gave me great excitement to go back for more. My family’s immigration history is similar: hard working parents, who made sure that their children work hard in school so that they wouldn’t go through the same hardships as they did. Both of my parents got their Master’s after I left “the nest” — now they could focus on themselves. What sacrifice! They, too, had great dreams.
What does the Tenement Museum mean to you?
The Tenement Museum means a lot to me. I am very glad and grateful that Ruth Abram and Anita Jacobson started the Museum. Museums hold very important parts of history that all can appreciate and seek to preserve. I’ve made sure that all know about the Tenement Museum since my first tour!
What are some other cultural institutions that you frequent/support?
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York Transit Museum, National Art Club.
Anything else you’d like to add?
The staff and tour guides are very friendly, upbeat, and knowledgeable. Thank you for this experience.