King Arts Complex facts for kids
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Pythian Temple and James Pythian Theater
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| Location | 861-867 Mt. Vernon Ave., Columbus, Ohio |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1925 |
| Architect | Evans & Plato; LeVeque, L.L. |
| Architectural style | Colonial Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 83004295 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | November 25, 1983 |
The Martin Luther King Jr. Performing and Cultural Arts Complex is a really cool old building in the King-Lincoln Bronzeville neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio. It was built way back in 1925. Back then, it was known as the Pythian Temple and James Pythian Theater.
This building is so important that it was added to special lists in 1983. These lists are the National Register of Historic Places and the Columbus Register of Historic Properties. In 1987, the building got a big makeover and became the King Arts Complex. It was empty for a little while starting in 2019. But in 2021, awesome community leaders brought it back to life as an arts center!
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History of the King Arts Complex
The Pythian Temple was designed by Samuel Plato, an African-American architect. It's the only building he designed in Columbus. The building has a special look called Colonial Revival style.
A Black group called the Knights of Pythias helped pay for the building. It opened in 1926 and was huge! It could hold about 1,000 people. Inside, there was a theater, shops, offices, and rooms for meetings.
A Hub for Entertainment
This building quickly became the most exciting place for entertainment in the neighborhood. Many famous performers came to play here. Imagine seeing legends like Cab Calloway, Count Basie, and Duke Ellington! Even the amazing Cotton Club Dancers performed on its stage.
Because of its history and importance, the building was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places on November 25, 1983. This means it's a special place worth protecting.
Becoming the King Arts Complex
In 1987, the temple got another big upgrade. An African-American owned architecture firm, Moody Nolan, helped connect it with Garfield Elementary School. The whole place was then renamed the Martin Luther King Jr. Performing and Cultural Arts Complex. This was done to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr..
Saving a Landmark
Sadly, in 2021, the building was listed as one of the most "endangered" sites in Columbus. This meant it was at risk of being lost. The King Arts Complex had moved out in 2019, and part of the building was even put up for sale in 2020.
But the community really wanted to save this important building! In July 2021, a Black-led nonprofit group called Maroon Arts Group stepped in. They made a deal to buy the temple from its owners. Thanks to them, this historic arts center will continue to be a special place for everyone.
See also
Images for kids
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King Arts Complex entrance in 1987
