CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - The $40 million project to transform the shell of Pilgrim Baptist Church in the Bronzeville neighborhood into the National Museum of Gospel Music got a boost Thursday, with the presentation of a $2.1 million check from the state.
This 1890 building, what's left, is historic for a couple reasons. It was designed by Adler and Sullivan, and in the 1930's became the birthplace of gospel music. The choir was led by legendary musician Thomas Dorsey.
The church burned in 2006. Alderman Pat Dowell remembers.
"My heart was heavy, seeing a great institution, historical icon just go up in flames," Dowell said.
Transformation of the old Pilgrim Baptist Church into the National Museum of Gospel Music is already underway.Mike Krauser
But, the National Museum of Gospel Music President Antionette Wright noted that the Pilgrim Baptist church sign somehow survived the fire.
"Cars' windows blew out, windows blew out of buildings, but that sign did not melt," Wright said.
As of now, two complete walls of the building remain standing, shored up with iron supports, and the goal is to have restoration work done and four walls up within two years.
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A drawing of the envisioned National Museum of Gospel Music, a $40 million project.Mike Krauser
