08-05-2025
Calls grow to rebuild fire-damaged Clayborn Temple
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — It's been nine days since the historic, 133-year-old Clayborn Temple caught fire, and now there are calls from the Southern Christian Leadership Conference to rebuild it.
You can't talk about the history of Civil Rights in Memphis without bringing up the Clayborn Temple.
'It had become the epicenter for the Civil Rights movement and cultural activities in the city of Memphis,' said Dr. LaSimba Gray, an SCLC member. 'The signs 'I Am A Man' we're printed in the building by the pastor at the time, Malcolm Blackwell, so you have a lot of fond memories of this building.'
Fire destroys Clayborn Temple, historic Memphis church with ties to Civil Rights movement
And while ruins now stand in the place where history was made, Dr. Gray and his colleagues have a clear vision on what they'd like to see going forward.
'Restore it to its original grandeur, and continue programs that would continue the racial progress that were made during its tenure and existence,' Gray said.
Fundraising efforts for the temple are led by Anasa Troutman and the Big We Foundation in Memphis, The SCLC is calling on federal funding as well.
Could Clayborn Temple rise from the ashes? A preservationist weighs in
While what's happened is nothing short of a disaster, Dr. Gray is inspired by the support for the landmark.
'The interest is growing and the better the weather gets the more support you will see for this project. Ms. Troutman is not in the by herself she has a whole community walking with her and the Big We Foundation will be supported by all of us,' Gray said.
Dr. Gray asks if you'd like to donate, please visit the Big We Foundation.
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