The Historic Michigan Street Baptist Church Reopens with Completed Renovation $500,000 Secured by U.S. Senate Leader Schumer in 2022
The Michigan Street Baptist Church, a cornerstone of Buffalo’s African American history, reopens its doors after a year-long renovation. The landmark has been at the heart of the community for two centuries, symbolizing resilience and progress. The reopening celebration is on January 29, 2025, from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm at 511 Michigan Ave., Buffalo, NY.
Owned by the Buffalo Niagara Freedom Station Coalition (BNFSC), the church underwent significant updates, including a new hardwood floor, fresh paint, restored original stenciling, new pews, balcony carpeting, and lighting fixtures. Free tours will honor Black History Month on February 1, 2025, from 12:30 to 4:30 pm. Register at michiganstreetbuffalo.org or michiganstreetbaptistchurch.org.
“The Michigan Street Baptist Church is a cornerstone of Buffalo’s African American history,” said Senator Chuck Schumer. “I’m proud to have secured funding for this historic renovation, ensuring its preservation for future generations.” The church’s restoration honors the abolitionist movement and civil rights struggles, safeguarding its legacy. Since its 1836 establishment, the church has been central to Buffalo’s African American culture and activism.
The Michigan Street Corridor was a hub for civil rights movements but faced disrepair due to underinvestment. Community leaders, through the MSAAHCC, strive to restore this corridor, creating new jobs and preserving its historical and cultural significance.
Lillie Wiley-Upshaw, BNFSC Chair, expressed gratitude for Senator Schumer’s support, noting the restoration’s expedited timeline. She credited Azar Design Co. for meticulous historical detail and R&P Oakhill’s careful construction work. “We’re thrilled to welcome the community back. Next is constructing the annex for accessibility and exhibition space,” Wiley-Upshaw shared.
Gwen Howard of Azar Design Co. emphasized recreating historic detailing, including plaster, stenciling, and light fixtures. “The restoration brings the church to life. We’re excited for the community to experience it,” said Howard. Terry Alford, MSAAHCC’s Executive Director, celebrated the church’s revitalization, calling it a symbol of activism and resilience.
Further construction begins in 2026, featuring an annex, a community garden, and a mural. An archeological dig led by the University at Buffalo uncovered a fireplace in Peyton Harris’s home, a founding church member. The dig resumes in spring 2025.
BNFSC, founded in 2001, preserves and promotes the church’s heritage. The Regional Revitalization Partnership (RRP), a $300M economic initiative, supports the church and Buffalo’s East Side restoration, aiming to build community wealth and foster development.