Celebration to kick off Pickett Chapel restoration project

Pickett Chapel, the old church at 209 East Market Street, has stood empty for years. But the building that housed Pickett Chapel has a long history: it’s the oldest brick building in Lebanon, and Pickett Chapel Methodist Church, established in 1866, was the first church for Blacks in the city.

Work will begin soon to bring the historic building back into the spotlight, and everyone in the community is invited to join in a celebration that kicks off the restoration project. The kickoff event will be Sept. 18, 2 – 7 p.m., at the old church.

“This will be a celebration in the chapel parking lot as we begin the first phase of the stabilization of the building,” says Mary Harris, president of the Wilson County Black History Committee, which purchased the building three years ago and is raising funds for its restoration. “It will be a day of fun, food and fellowship.”

Pickett Chapel was built in 1827, and throughout the years became a major factor in the formation of the community. The church remained active until 1973, when members moved to a new building, which was named Pickett Rucker United Methodist Church. For several years, until 2001, the historic building on East Market Street was home to a local theater company.

The Wilson County Black History Committee purchased the building in 2007. After renovation, it will become the committee’s headquarters and the site of the Roy Bailey African American History Center, and a resource for the entire community.

The kickoff celebration Sept. 18 is open to the public; there is no admission charge, but donations are appreciated. All proceeds will go toward the restoration of the historic chapel. The event is sponsored by the Wilson County Black History Committee and the Roy Bailey African American History Center.

For more information, call 449-2911 or 739-2283.