[Debbie Mercer]

3831 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. The building was built in 1893 as a home grain merchant George A. Seaverns, Jr. The architect was Gustav Hallberg. In 1940, the building was converted to an arts center. Among its alumni are Gordon Parks and Archibald Motley.

—Debbie Mercer

More information on the South Side Community Arts Center →

[Debbie Mercer]

265 E. Pershing Rd., Chicago. 1911

Ebenezer Baptist Interior. John Morris/Chicago Patterns

A cultural treasure resides at 45th and Vincennes in Bronzeville: Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church. This church (and former synagogue) represents a grand alpha and omega: the birthplace of gospel music and the final work of legendary architect Dankmar Adler.

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