The third annual Preservation Banquet, held to raise funds for the restoration of Historic Pickett Chapel, is planned for June 10, 2011 at Ward Agricultural Center. Rep. Johnny Shaw of Bolivar, Tenn. is the keynote speaker.

            While the event raises funds for the restoration of the historic building on East Market Street, it also celebrates the completion of Phase I of the project – stabilizing the building’s east wall – and the beginning of the second phase.

            “The next phase of the restoration is to add a new roof, windows and doors,” says Mary Harris, president of the Wilson County Black History Committee/Roy Bailey African American Museum and History Center. “It’s a massive project. It is important to try to save this building. Hopefully people will come out to the banquet and support the effort,” Harris says.

            The building that served for 107 years as Pickett Chapel Methodist Church, on East Market Street, was built in 1827 and is the oldest brick structure in Lebanon. Pickett Chapel Methodist Church was established in 1866 as the first church for Blacks in the city, and became a major factor in the formation of the Lebanon 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 was home to a local theater company. The Wilson County Black History Committee purchased the building in 2007 and began the restoration.

            When the project is complete, Historic Pickett Chapel will house the Roy Bailey African American History Center, and will serve as a resource for the entire Lebanon community.

            Rep. Shaw, who represents District 80 in Hardeman and part of Madison counties, will deliver the keynote address.

            “It is important to recognize the significance of African American landmarks in Tennessee,” Harris says. “We appreciate the support we have gotten for this project over the years. A lot has been done, but there is so much more we have to try to do.”

            The Preservation Banquet will begin at 6 p.m. on June 10 at the Educational Building at Ward Agricultural Center. Tickets are $25, and are available at the Lebanon Chamber of Commerce, 149 Public Square, at the Roy Bailey African American History Museum at 115 East Main Street, Suite B, and from members of Wilson County Black History Committee. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.

            To learn more, visit the Wilson County Black History Committee’s Web site, www.wilsoncountyblackhistory.org.