Every dollar you give goes directly toward stabilizing the building and preserving the history of the first Black-owned opera company in America.
The National Opera House was founded by Ms. Miriam White and Jonnet Solomon to protect 7101 Apple Street before it was lost, reclaim histories pushed to the margins of American memory, and restore a landmark that forces the nation to confront the full depth, brilliance, and complexity of its cultural story.
Having the courage to decisively take action, Jonnet Solomon has shaped a model for safeguarding historic sites and elevating narratives that deserves enduring recognition.
Discover Our Story
The 7101 Project is a comprehensive effort to stabilize, restore, and reimagine the historic home at 7101 Apple Street in Pittsburgh, the birthplace of the National Negro Opera Company and a nationally significant cultural landmark.
Today, the structure stands as both a symbol of extraordinary cultural achievement and an urgent preservation challenge.
Learn About the 7101 ProjectOver the past two decades, advocates, preservationists, and community partners have worked tirelessly to stabilize the National Opera House. With critical groundwork completed, the project has entered the restoration phase.
Securing the structure, protecting the building envelope, and preventing further deterioration.
Repairing historic architectural elements while carefully restoring the home's original beauty and integrity.
Bringing the building back to life as a vibrant cultural space for arts, education, and community programs.
In 1941, Mary Cardwell Dawson founded the National Negro Opera Company at 7101 Apple Street, the first African American opera company in the United States.
Against tremendous odds, she trained and mentored countless Black singers who went on to perform on the world's greatest stages. Today, we carry forward her vision of excellence, opportunity, and cultural pride.
Make a secure, tax-deductible contribution to support the restoration of the National Opera House and the programs that bring its mission to life.
Make a secure, tax-deductible contribution to support the restoration of the National Opera House.
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Every donation brings us closer to preserving this historic landmark for future generations.
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