Clayborn Temple, a historic Black American church in downtown Memphis, was intentionally set on fire in late April, according to a formal investigation by the Memphis Fire Department. The blaze, which caused significant interior destruction, has now become a focal point in local and national preservation discussions.
The fire broke out in the early morning of April 28, during a planned $25 million restoration project aimed at reviving the 1892-built church. Officials say the fire originated inside the building, and authorities are currently searching for a suspect. On May 14, the fire department confirmed that the building was stabilized, allowing investigators to use specialized tools to examine the cause.
An $11,000 reward is being offered for information that could lead to an arrest, and images of a person of interest have been released to the public.
Clayborn Temple history dates back to its origin as the Second Presbyterian Church, which served a white congregation. In 1949, it was sold to the African Methodist Episcopal Church and renamed Clayborn Temple. The church became a symbol of the Black American freedom struggle during the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers’ Strike, which drew the support of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. shortly before his assassination.
In 1979, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The current restoration effort includes preserving its Romanesque Revival architecture, rebuilding the sanctuary, and reviving the 3,000-pipe grand organ. Plans also involve launching a museum and cultural programming center to serve the surrounding community.
“This act of violence is painful, but it will not break our spirit,” said Anasa Troutman, executive director of Historic Clayborn Temple. “Clayborn Temple is sacred ground — home to generations of struggle, resilience and creativity.”
In the wake of the fire, the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, in partnership with the Mellon Foundation and Ford Foundation, awarded a $1.5 million grant to jumpstart rebuilding. Read about the Clayborn Temple restoration grant announced during a press conference that included remarks by Martin Luther King III, Tennessee Congressman Steve Cohen, and Memphis Mayor Paul Young.
“Clayborn Temple is more than just brick and mortar,” King said. “It’s a sanctuary of purpose, where civil rights and labor leaders came together in the fight for dignity and where community was born.”
Brent Leggs, executive director of the Action Fund, said the grant is part of a larger campaign. “We are committed to standing with you and seeing this process of healing through.”
Despite the setback, the restoration team and local leaders have confirmed their commitment to completing the project. Support Clayborn Temple’s rebuilding efforts through the public donation fund now open for long-term recovery and community outreach.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or the Memphis Fire Department tip line.
