Help Conserve Artifacts from the Mecca Flat

Recent work on the grounds of S. R. Crown Hall at the Illinois Institute of Technology led to the discovery of artifacts from the Mecca Flat, the historic residential building which once stood on the site. A team of architects, historians, and urban archeologists successfully excavated a significant portion of these architectural elements. These artifacts will be properly conserved and installed in an exhibition at the Graham Resource Center in S. R. Crown Hall, where they will remain permanently on view to the public. 

Make a donation to the  Mecca Flat Artifact Conservation Fund today, and help to ensure this important element of Bronzeville's history can be shared with generations to come. 

All donations--no matter the amount--are significant, and vital to the completion of conservation. 

For individuals who make a donation of $250 or more, we offer a token of our appreciation. 

A substantial number of Chicago Common bricks from the building's interior were among the architectural elements recovered from the Mecca.  A select number of these now bear the sign from the Mecca's entrance, the years the building stood, and the date of the brick's excavation. All contributors to the Mecca Flat Artifact Conservation Fund donating $250 or more will receive one of these bricks, accompanied by a document of provenance. 

PLEASE NOTE: qualifying donors will be contacted in mid-September to arrange receipt of their brick. 

Items receiving conservation include: