Partners In Preservation - Chicagoland Initiative


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	Why Quinn Chapel Should Be Preserved Submitted by CMA Executive, Chicagoland Quinn Chapel AME Church is celebrating 160 years of existence in 2007. It was a "station" on the Underground Railroad where escaped slaves received rest and succor on their journeys to freedom from captivity in Canada. I grew up in this church which has a rich history in the struggle for equal rights and freedom under the law. President William McKinley spoke from the pulpit as did Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Wynton Marsalis premiered a musical work of epic proportions in its sanctuary. Among Quinn Chapel's array of illustrious former pastors was the Honorable Archibald. J. Carey, Jr., an attorney and Cook County Circuit Judge whose father before him, Archibald J. Carey, Sr. became a Bishop in the AME Church. I am a classically-trained musician whose first formal musical training was received at Quinn Chapel. All of the Black churches were the center of musical training. The teachers were Black classically-trained musicians who were/and still are denied equal access on concert stages and in opera houses around the nation, and include Northwestern University graduate and violinist Nelmatilda Ritchie Woodard, first Black Director of Music for the Chicago Public Schools (CPS); Portia Thomas Bailey, Supervisor and former Music Teacher at Jean Baptiste Pointe DuSable High School (CPS) whose husband, the late A. Leon Bailey, was a former pastor; and Alfred Rudd, former administrator with the Chicago Public Schools. My Mother is probably the oldest member of Quinn Chapel at the age of 97. She has been a member since 1938. I was christened, taken into membership and married in this church. It has much meaning in my life and the lives of my family members and loved ones and deserves receiving the award. Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	please vote for QUINN Submitted by molly f., south chicago land During the Open House weekend, I visited Quinn Chapel. I thought they put a lot of effort into making everyone's visit a learning experience!!! Quinn deserves their grant. I think that saving it will help the community because every Sunday morning they feed church members a big breakfast. VOTE FOR QUINN CHAPEL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	Memories Submitted by Andie, Chicago South Side I grew up in this church. I had been in attendance since I was eight years old. I have served in several ministries, such as the choir, usher board and the YPD. This is a great church and its architecture is magnificent. It needs to be restored to accommodate the surrounding new community. Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	Quinn Chapel Is Historic Submitted by Chaunie, Chicago Suburbs I can remember going to this wonderful edifice as a young person. Now, we must do all we can to preserve this historic building. It was part of the Underground Railroad as well as many other historic events. I can say that I am a proud member of the AME church, and would like to see Quinn get the recognition that it so richly deserves. Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	Rich in History Submitted by Lani Smith, South Florida I was christened and raised in Quinn Chapel. My father sang in the Senior Choir and participated in June Rose Concerts. He taped Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. when he spoke there on 4 occasions. I am considered to be the Mother of the Junior Church led by Rev. Dora Alfred. I taught Sunday School and served on the Junior Usher Board as a teenager. My father became a Trustee and served as Historian of the church until he passed in 2000. There have been a host of famous speakers there, and as the oldest church founded by black people in Chicago, it MUST be preserved and continue to serve the community. My mother served the Stewardess Board for many years, and at age 92 she lives with me in south Florida but we continue to feel that we are part of the Quinn Chapel family. - Ruth Leilani Smith-Tellez, Coral Springs, FL Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	A Blessed place Submitted by mylie, Chicago In 2000 I had my wedding in this church. Even after last minute changes that meant I couldn't have it at my church, God lead me to this church which was just three blocks away from the original place. The staff & pastor were nice enough to let me & my family have the wedding here. My pastor, my husband, and other church members are very grateful to have been inside this precious work of art. Thanks Quinn. Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	A Symbol of Faith Submitted by Ceci, Chicago Even though I am not originally from AME, Quinn Chapel has been my home church for the past 24 years. I have found love and inspiration in this edifice from my church family, friends and loved ones. It has been my symbol of faith having carried me through good times, not so good times and future times that only God has control. This landmark has withstood more than the cold, the heat, the rain, the wind, the ice and snow. It has survived many more elements defending the rights of many and supporting those who have little or nothing. Quinn Chapel is truly a symbol of those that walk by faith, not by sight. By God's grace and blessings this building and the congregation will survive another 180 years plus. Cecilia J. Miller, MBA/HRM Member Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	inspiring Submitted by molly f., South Chicago When I visited Quinn A.M.E. Chapel I found it very interesting and inspiring. I think it was because they had a interactive museum. Comments (1) \| Comment on this story
	Lasting Impact from a Single Visit Submitted by Joan, South Chicagoland Quinn Chapel A.M.E. Church is one of dozens of churches nationwide where I had the chance to sing as a member of one visiting choir or another during my adolescence several decades ago. The morning at Quinn remains special in my memory: the vibrant building, the congregation's vital past and vigorous present. Every time I've passed it since, I've recalled that spacious main room open to the light and filled with spirit, praise, and energy; for me it has been a literal landmark. It took something for our normally spirited, energetic choir to keep up with the worshipers! Quinn wasn't a relic of its storied past but rather a powerful present-day force with a strong historical foundation rooted both in people and in place. Long may it be so. Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	Proud Member of Quinn Submitted by Landi, Chicago Paul Quinn Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church has been in existence for longer than I've been alive! As I was basically born here, this church and its parishioners has played tremendous and intricate roles in every life endeavor that I've undertaken. From paying my rental payments (when they were several months behind); to restoring my car from repossession; to making sure my family and I had enough to eat during some of the most difficult times. Words will never be able to express the magnitude of my gratitude for all that Quinn and its members means to me. It is a place where all can find healing, comfort, and restoration for the mind, body, and soul. And so, I whole-heartedly endorse this "cathedral of freedom" for this prestigious opportunity and encourage all to become a part of what God is doing at Quinn. Humbly submitted, Ms. Yolanda Ann Perry, M.Ed. Proud Member of Quinn Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	Quinn Chapel's Significance to My Family Submitted by James Knox, Oakland, Ca. Quinn Chapel has special significance in my family. I attended there as a young adult. My mom is an active member since she was 8 or 9 years old. My dad served as a trustee, steward, and sang in the choir. It is an amazing structure that I have come to appreciate more as I have gotten older. This church has served the community for many years and I hope that it will continue to do so for years to come. Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	why Quinn should win Submitted by carol, southside Hi, I believe that Quinn Chapel AME Church should win because it is one of the most oldest sites in Chicagoland. I have been attending Quinn every since I was a child, my mother played the piano and organ for the choir many years ago. It has a rich history and flavor that has no comparison. Quinn was used as an underground railroad and many important speakers have been there, even before my time. It is also an established landmark, and it has a time capsule implanted outside between the structure. We have had movies made there, held gospel musicals etc. I could go on and on but the space is limited. Thanks, Leila C. Hill Comments (1) \| Comment on this story
	Amazing architecture... Amazing history Submitted by Jason Berry, Blue Island Quinn Chapel AME is simply one of the most important buildings in Chicagoland. Few sites tell so full a story of Black Chicago. From suffrage to housing to civil rights and beyond, at every step Quinn has been a leader. The roster of historical figures that have visited the church is impressive, and speaks to its significance. Quinn's leadership founded many partner institutions that supported Chicago's legendary Black Metropolis. The architecture is an enduring testament to the goals and ambitions of its congregation, which continues to enrich the mission of Quinn Chapel AME. Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	Leading the way to civic service Submitted by Christopher, Chicago The physical and social presence of Quinn Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church...constitutes a rare combination of enduring architectural beauty along with a history of essential civic and cultural commitment… Once the church moved into its new home in 1891, it established a newer and modern imprint of the city's African American community. When performance venues were scarce or too expensive, Quinn Chapel provided space for concerts and forums. Moreover, Quinn Chapel led the way to civic service as important issues of the day were discussed. Without Quinn Chapel, the city would have never progressed in the manner it has; with Quinn Chapel being preserved, its visual and social heritage is assured. - Christopher R. Reed, Ph.D.; Professor Emeritus of History, Roosevelt University; Member, City of Chicago Landmarks Commission Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	Saving a "Cathedral of Freedom" Submitted by Patricia, Chicago Quinn began in 1844 and has been known for its contribution to this community from the Underground Railroad and abolition movement to today and the revitalization of the South loop. All African Americans in this city are proud of the history of Quinn. I accepted the position of restoration chair in 2004 and it is because I cannot think of a more significant work worthy of restoration than Quinn. I believe Quinn will always stand at the corner of 24th and Wabash, as it has for the past 116 years. Our 7 million dollar restoration campaign began with the replacement of the roof, rafters, and beams in order to "seal the envelope." I am deeply honored to have played a part in saving the building that is recognized as the "Cathedral of Freedom." Once you enter Quinn's doors, you will understand as I do the necessity of saving this treasure. - Patricia Hurston, Restoration Chair, Executive VP CNA Insurance Comments (1) \| Comment on this story
	An important touchstone for so many generations Submitted by Dorothy, Chicago First, Quinn is important to me as my place of worship for over 35 years. Secondly, the value to the community is immeasurable. When I consider the African American community of Chicago, Quinn is the building that says we were here then (1844) and we are here now (2007). The building was built by black people for black people over 116 years ago. I just know it is so important to the community. The historical importance of Quinn cannot be expressed enough. One of my most treasured thoughts is that one of the 21 Bishops in the AME church was elected after serving as Pastor of Quinn Chapel. Bishop Gregory Ingram holds the highest office in our denomination and when he was the Pastor of Quinn I was an officer. We have so many young people in the Oldest Black Church in Chicago that I am assured it will be here for generations to come. Members of the community who began here and still call this their spiritual home will see to it that Quinn lasts forever. The growth of people in the church has been remarkable over the last several years and will only continue as we bring it back to its original glory. - Dorothy Cunningham, Steward Pro-temp Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	My home away from home Submitted by Ruth, Chicago As a member of the oldest black congregation in Chicago, I am so proud of Quinn's contribution to society and its continuous ability to help others. I sometimes feel that my church is my second home, the place where I serve God. The setting is so fitting and reminds me of what heaven must be like. In 1891, the necessities for comfort were different from today. From the ceiling to wood plank floors, the beauty of this building cannot be adequately described. We now house a Head Start Program and share a common space and kitchen. The requirements for food services, sanitation and accessibility were not considered when the church was built. Some of my fondest memories include formal meals and services from this space; I recall many June Rose Concerts dressed to the nines followed by a formal banquet and celebrations fit for Kings and Queens. As a senior member, I look forward to Quinn being restored to its beauty of days gone by. - Ruth Dunham Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	A place for personal growth Submitted by Melvin, Chicago Quinn Chapel is important to me because it offers me a place of spiritual growth to develop aspects of my life that would not be developed anywhere else. I was first drawn because of my love of music. First the Gospel choir, then the Chancel Choir, allowed me to mix my love of music with my love for God. I participated in annual June Rose Concerts, traveled to different churches with the choir, and not least of all was the fellowship I really enjoyed with the choir members. After the choir came experiences as an officer in the church on the Steward Board. That led to work on the Finance board and a whole rewarding life completely outside of everyday work and routine as a Math Professor at University of Illinois, Chicago. Quinn allowed me to develop myself personally starting with reaching outside myself to interacting with others in Christian fellowship. Then I learned to develop my spiritual side and reach new understandings of who I am and what God's plan is for my life. We are eager to restore our edifice to provide a new modern place to continue our personal and collective growth, as well as to provide a continued blessing to the community in which we are located. - Dr. Melvin Heard, Assistant Dean College of Liberal Arts Comments (0) \| Comment on this story
	Quinn is my family Submitted by Carolyn, Chicago Quinn Chapel Church has been a part of my life for over 50 years. I feel an allegiance to people who started this church some 160 years ago. History is so important, and Quinn has a wealth of it. I consider the membership at Quinn part of my family. We have shared many challenges and overcome many of them together. One of my favorite memories is hosting the Wynton Marsalis Concert of Sacred Music. I served on the hospitality committee. It was a spectacular event. The concert was held at the church and the reception held at a downtown hotel and both were well attended. It was unforgettable because it was Wynton Marsalis's first presentation of sacred music and it was done at Quinn. - Carolyn Dodd Comments (3) \| Comment on this story