The Grand River Historical Society will officially open the “Bethel Black History Museum and Ron Wilder Traditional Arts Center” on Sunday, May 30th. The event will wrap up the museum’s celebration of Historic Preservation Month. Museum Director Pam Clingerman says the Bethel AME Church was consecrated in 1868 – the first African Methodist Episcopal Church built north of the Missouri River post-Civil War. The church was moved to its current location, across from the Museum, in 2018. Since that time countless hours have been amassed in the restoration of the building’s interior.
She says the mural of Jesus painted in 1970 has been stabilized – with one exception – since the move he has developed a tear in his right eye; the mural did not have this prior to the move!
Clingerman says the new basement houses the Ron Wilder Traditional Arts Center, composed of a gathering room, two classrooms, 2 ADA bathrooms, and small kitchenette. The building will offer classes in the traditional arts; spinning, weaving, knitting, rug making etc.; classes to be announced soon.
The public is welcome to attend this exciting event. You can come and enjoy a hotdog and lemonade and have a fun day.
