Pilgrim Wonders (2)

1960s gospel group from Galesburg, Illinois. Excerpted from an article appearing in “The Galesburg (Illinois) Register-Mail” titled “Remembering The Pilgrim Wonders” authored by Mitch Prentice: The Galesburg-based band was formed by tenor Lomac Payton and lead vocalist John H. Mims. The group eventually became a six-piece a cappella ensemble including John Mims, lead singer; James Smith, bass; Lomac Payton, tenor; Elbert Dickerson, baritone; Henry Shaw, soprano; and later A.C. Pennington on guitar. The group worked together for three years before turning professional in 1964, focusing on spiritual songs. The Pilgrim Wonders performed throughout the Midwest in states including Illinois, Missouri, Michigan, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky and Arkansas. The group focused mostly on playing in churches, though dabbled in some sponsored school shows. Lomac Payton recalled some of their most popular songs being “I Have the Love of Jesus Down in My Heart” and a song written by Payton himself called “I Was Lost in Sin.” The group disbanded in 1975.