Pilgrim Baptist Church
Chicago, IL 60616-3838
Phone: (312) 842-4417
- Directions:
- El stop: Green Line to Bronzeville/IIT
Editorial Review for Pilgrim Baptist Church – by Citysearch Staff
The Building
Architect Louis Sullivan built this south side congregation in 1890. His partner, engineer Dankmar Adler, gave it its impressive presence in sturdy masonry. Terra-cotta panels embellish the facade with intricate foliage patterns. The interior is equally ornate. The Pilgrim Baptist Church has occupied this Chicago landmark since 1922. Pilgrim now ranks as one of the oldest African American churches on the Southeast Side.
The History
The church played an important role in the birth and growth of the Chicago gospel scene. During the 1930s, Thomas A. Dorsey--the congregation's music director--helped develop the musical genre. Renowned gospel celebrities like Mahalia Jackson, Sallie Martin and James Cleveland sang at the church. It was also the location for a scene from the original "Blues Brothers" movie.
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