Cecil Pope (1889-1967)
Cecil Pope was born in Sidney, IL, and with his parents, moved to Champaign as a child. He was a graduate of Champaign High School. As a young boy, he was a member of the Brewer’s Juvenile Band, established in the early 1900s by a Mr. Schaede, a local German immigrant. Mr. Pope is listed in 1908 as the band’s assistant manager. He played several instruments: trombone, violin, drums, trumpet, piano, and was a prolific pipe organist, serving as the Music Director at Bethel A.M.E. Church, 1920-1966.
“The Sounds of Music” by Doris Hoskins, Through the Years (Winter 1995). The Champaign County African American History Committee, in conjunction with the Early American Museum and the Champaign Park District.
“Portrait of a Family” by Carrie Pope Banks, Through the Years (Spring 1996). The Champaign County African American History Committee, in conjunction with the Early American Museum and the Champaign Park District.
