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Quinn Chapel AME, Chicago’s oldest African American congregation, hired architect Henry Starbuck to design their impressive Gothic-style church out of Indiana limestone in 1892. After 116 years in this location, Quinn Chapel is still a vital part of the Bronzeville neighborhood. A Partners in Preservation grant was awarded for repairs to the kitchen and foundation. The project was completed in 2009 and has contributed to the continued success of Quinn Chapel’s many outreach and children’s social services programs.
What is the historical significance of this site?
As Chicago's oldest African American congregation, Quinn Chapel has hosted an impressive collection of noted speakers, including Martin Luther King, Jr., Susan B. Anthony, Frederick Douglas and Booker T. Washington. The church features an unusual second-story sanctuary by Charles H. McAfee.
What is the current status of the grant?
In March 2009, Quinn Chapel completed its Partners in Preservation project. The supporting structure in the basement had started to fail, causing a portion of the kitchen floor to become dangerously unstable. Quinn Chapel was able to use the grant to stabilize the floor, preserve some significant historic features, and provide upgraded facilities in the kitchen. As a result, the congregation is better able to serve the public and generate increased rental revenue to support the ongoing restoration.
Why this site needs your support:
Quinn Chapel is a historically significant local, state and national landmark and has served an important role in Chicago's African American community since its construction in 1892. As Quinn Chapel celebrates its 165th anniversary in 2009, it continues its founding mission by serving Chicago as a house of worship, a meeting space, a performance center, a social service provider and a well-known Chicago tourist site. Quinn provides over $500,000 of in-kind services to the community each year through church programs and consistently provides support for disadvantaged community members.
To donate to this project, visit https://secure2.convio.net/nthp/site/Donation2?idb=1753227495&df_id=1860&1860.donation=form1&JServSessionIdr009=87ito2o002.app7a or call Quinn Chapel at 312-791-1847.
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