Grace Presbyterian Church Historical Link to Tatum According to the churches "Minutes of Session" records, the first organizational meeting of Grace Presbyterian Church took place in August, 1919. Four years later, records indicate on Sunday, July 2, 1922, Grace initiated a week of services celebrating the founding of the first predominantly African American presbyterian church in Toledo, Ohio. The church was located at the corners of City Par and Woodland Avenues. Mr. Art Tatum Sr. was - at that time - the church treasurer. Not coincidentally, both Art and Mildred Taylor, the parents of the legendary musician, are listed as founding members of the church.
Grace Chose Kids to Honor Tatum
Art Tatum, Jr was about eight years old when Grace Presbyterian was founded. It was fitting Grace Presbyterians Women's Association led by church elders, Ms. Delores Penn and Mrs. Marva Stone chose two young women to demonstrate their piano skills and simultaneously honor the late great Tatum. 
Ms. Sania Bauswell, one of the youth performers, is a 13 year-old eighth grade pianist attending St Patrick of Heatherdown School.Sania's maturity and delivery, along with her vocal skills surprised and lifted the audience to new heights and confidence and comfort in knowing the youth of this community truly understand the importance of ... legacy. 
Ms. Isis Darks is a senior at Start High School and a TOLEDO EXCEL Group XVIII scholar. Ms. Darks fluid understanding of piano was exemplified as she performed her own composition entitled, "Tribute to Tatum."
Those attending Grace's special service were also treated to the exceptional talent of vocalist, Mr. Patrick Lockett, Rogers High School class of 1979, whose homecoming performance elevated the 100th birthday special celebration of the legendary Art Tatum. 
Mr. Lockett currently resides in Los Angeles, California. Among the notables attending the morning's special service was retired Judge Robert V. Franklin, former Toledo Mayor Jack Ford, and current State Treasurer, Kevin Boyce.
|