Clayborn Temple, a historic Black church in Memphis, suffered significant damage from a fire early Monday morning. Fire Chief Gina Sweat confirmed a total loss of the interior while expressing hope for the facade's preservation. The church, significant for its role in Martin Luther King Jr.'s 1968 campaign for sanitation workers' rights, was undergoing a $25 million renovation. The building's restoration aims to maintain its architectural integrity and promote community outreach through a museum and cultural programs. An investigation into the fire's cause is ongoing, with authorities involved.
"The inside is a total loss, but we're still somewhat hopeful that some of the facade will be able to be left standing," Memphis Fire Chief Gina Sweat said.
"This morning we woke up to heartbreaking news: a devastating fire has ravaged one of our city's greatest treasures, Clayborn Temple," Memphis Mayor Paul Young wrote.
Local fire and police officers are investigating the cause, along with the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is 'way too early' to know anything more."},{
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