Kelly Brown<tbctaller@mindspring.com> Date: Fri, 21 Nov 1997
Dear Chancellor Broski,
This letter is intended to reach you in regards to my feelings for a Maxwell Street Historic Preservation District incorporated into the University of Illinois's plans for commercial redevelopment of the Maxwell Street area. Knowing the historic value and sentiment of the Maxwell Street district, I feel that termination of this project would be an embarrassment to your office. The history of blues music dates back as far as most historians can look.
Being a young fan of the blues, I feel it is important to keep the "roots" around for future generations to explore and enjoy. If you demolished the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., you would be taking away the history of that monument and the statement it represents. It is no different in the Maxwell Street district case. Blues music is a part of this country's history. If you take a trip back in time you will see the changes it has made in our lives. It has previously been noted as "black-American music, " but now it has evolved into ALL music.
Most of the sounds you hear today started with a "blues" mold: Rock-n-Roll, country, alternative, easy listening and even hip hop. Most of the young people today couldn't tell you who "Memphis" Minnie was, but they would sure know Janis Joplin. And where do you think she got her style from? The blues. Ask a 18 year old who Jimi Hendrix is and they will surely tell you every album he ever recorded. Including "Jimi Hedrix Plays The Blues."
The blues represents all music past and present, and we need landmarks like this to remind us. Please take all this into consideration when you make your decision. My children and their children and every generation thereafter will thank you.
With Appreciation,
Kelly Brown
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