Wasn’t Anthony Overton a visionary? Right here stands the Chicago Bee Branch Library. This magnificent building wasn’t always a haven for books and learning. It once housed the Chicago Bee newspaper. A powerful voice for Chicago’s African American community. Founded by Overton himself a highly successful entrepreneur. He championed Bronzeville. The name Bronzeville itself was coined by the Chicago Bee’s editor James Gentry. It perfectly captured the neighborhood’s vibrant energy.
The Chicago Bee Branch Library isn’t just a library. It’s a testament to a rich history. A history of community and resilience. This beautiful Art Deco building was designed by Z. Erol Smith in 1929. Its terracotta facade is stunning. The building even served as headquarters for Overton’s Hygienic Manufacturing Company. A nationally recognized cosmetics company in the 1930s. This building thrived. It housed apartments and offices. The Chicago Bee newspaper however ceased publication in 1947. The building stood vacant for a time.
The Chicago Bee Branch Library joined the Chicago Public Library system in 1996. It’s a vital part of the Bronzeville community. A $2.32 million renovation in 2018 restored the building’s beauty. The exterior Art Deco terra cotta was painstakingly restored. The interior was completely renovated. It truly is a remarkable success story. The building became a Designated Chicago Landmark in 1996. A part of the Bronzeville Historic District.
The Chicago Bee Branch Library continues to serve the community. It offers a variety of programs. It is a place where people can learn grow and connect. The library even houses a special exhibit. “Stories We Tell: The History of the Chicago Bee Branch”. This exhibit celebrates the library’s history and the rich legacy of the Chicago Bee newspaper. The library provides necessary services. It protects Chicago’s historic buildings for future generations. So take a moment. Appreciate the Chicago Bee Branch Library. A place where history learning and community meet.