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Big Bethel AME Church facts for kids

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Big Bethel AME Church
Big Bethel AME Church seen across Auburn Ave. in 2012
Big Bethel AME Church seen across Auburn Ave. in 2012
Location Atlanta, Georgia
Country United States
Denomination Black church
History
Founded 1847

The Big Bethel AME Church is a very important church located in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. It stands on a famous street called Sweet Auburn. This church has a long and rich history, especially for the Black community in Atlanta. It has been a center for education, civil rights, and community life for many years.

A Look at Big Bethel Church's History

How the Church Started

The Big Bethel AME Church began in 1847. It was first known as Union Church in a place called Marthasville, Georgia. Over time, its name changed a few times. It became Union Church again, then Big Bethel AME Church, and later Bethel Tabernacle. After the American Civil War ended, the church grew across the Southern states. Bethel Tabernacle then joined with the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) denomination. This is how it became the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church. Its first leader was Reverend Joseph Woods.

A Place for Learning

Big Bethel Church played a huge role in education. In 1879, the very first public school for Black children in Atlanta started in the church's basement. This school was called Gate City Colored School. Later, it moved to a different street. Also, Morris Brown College, a well-known college, held its first classes at the church in 1881. The church was so important that people called it "Sweet Auburn's City Hall."

Famous Visitors and Events

Many important people have visited Big Bethel Church. In 1911, President William Howard Taft gave a speech there. Later, in 1990, Nelson Mandela, a famous leader from South Africa, also spoke at the church. During the 1960s, the church was the yearly meeting spot for the Atlanta Negro Voters League. This group worked to help Black citizens vote and have their voices heard.

The Heaven Bound Play

A special play called Heaven Bound was written by people who attended the church. This play is still performed every year at Big Bethel Church. It is a long-standing tradition for the community.

External Links

  • Official Website: http://www.bigbethelame.org/
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