Piano from Pilgrim Baptist Church used by Thomas Dorsey

The Cable Piano Company, American, founded 1880 · 1930s

This piano once resided in the historical Pilgrim Baptist Church of Chicago, Illinois, where it was used as a rehearsal piano by music director, Thomas A. Dorsey, the "Father of Gospel Music." Hired by influential pastor Junius C. Austin in the 1930s, Dorsey helped make Pilgrim one of the largest churches in the country. With Dorsey as its music director, the church became known as the birthplace of gospel music. Albertina Walker, Mahalia Jackson, Sallie Martin, Aretha Franklin, James Cleveland, The Staple Singers and The Edwin Hawkins singers are among those who have sung at the church. Famous members of the congregation include Bessie Coleman. When Pilgrim purchased new instruments for its music program, this piano was given to Pastor Austin. It would be played by Dorsey and others when they visited his home.