Stabilize
Securing the structure, protecting the building envelope, and preventing further deterioration.
National Opera House
Chapter 7101
Help restore the historic home tied to Mary Cardwell Dawson’s legacy.
501(c)(3)
Nonprofit
7101
Apple Street
2028
Target Opening
Who We Are
Lost to history. Restored for the future
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
The House. Restored
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. Through careful restoration, the project ensures that this irreplaceable site is not lost, but instead restored with purpose, respect, and long term vision.
Learn About the 7101 Project
Stabilize
Restore
Activate
Restoration Journey
From erasure to activation
Over 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.
Restore
Repairing historic architectural elements while carefully restoring the home’s original beauty and integrity.
Activate
Bringing the building back to life as a vibrant cultural space for arts, education, and community programs.
“This restoration is about more than bricks and mortar, it’s about preserving a legacy that inspired generations and creating a space where that inspiration can continue to flourish.” National Opera House Restoration Team
Ways to Support
The Work Continues With You
Make a secure, tax-deductible contribution to support the restoration of the National Opera House and the programs that bring its mission to life.
01
Donate
Make a secure, tax-deductible contribution to support the restoration of the National Opera House.
Donate02
Fundraise
Host an event, launch a campaign, or invite your network to help raise funds and awareness.
Fundraising03
Volunteer
Share your time, skills, and passion by supporting programs, events, and preservation efforts.
Get Involved
A Legacy Worth Preserving
Past visions to today’s futures
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.
Explore Our Full History
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Restoration reimagined
Every donation brings us closer to preserving this historic landmark for future generations.
501(c)(3)
Tax-deductible donations
2,500+
Donors
$1.2M
Toward our $3.5M goal