Hood A.M.E. Zion Church facts for kids
The Hood African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church in Oyster Bay, New York, is a very old and important church. It was started way back in 1848. This church is special because it's the oldest church in Oyster Bay that still holds services in its original building.
A small wooden church was built on this spot in 1856. Later, the church was renamed to honor an important early bishop, James Walker Hood. In 1937, the wooden church got a new look when it was covered with the brick you see today. Reverend Moses T. Smith was the pastor from 1937 to 1963. Today, Reverend Linda B. Vanager leads the church. She was appointed to the role after Reverend Kenneth Nelson retired in June 2013.
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History of Hood AME Zion Church
Many churches have built new buildings over the years. But the Hood African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church is different. It's the oldest church in Oyster Bay that still uses its first building. In 1848, a group of African American families wanted to start a church. Edward Weekes gave them the land for it.
They built a small wooden church in 1856. They first called it the First African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. Later, they changed the name to Hood AME Zion Church. This was to honor Bishop James Walker Hood.
Early Challenges and Support
The church started with a small group of people. They often had money problems. Sometimes, they couldn't afford to have a pastor. But they kept going, showing great strength. In 1884, the Weeks family helped again. John Abeel Weeks gave them land in Pine Hollow for a cemetery.
To raise money, the church held many events. They had fairs and concerts. Still, most pastors could only stay for a few months. In the 1890s, Reverend John LaChia tried something new. He held concerts and chowder suppers at Fleets Hall. They hoped to raise enough money to build a house for the pastor. They raised enough for a foundation, but no more.
Building the Parsonage and Updates
Another pastor, Reverend James Gaskill, brought church leaders together. They all helped with fundraising. Important families in Oyster Bay also gave money. Within a year, the house for the pastor was built. Electric lights were also added to the church.
In 1937, the original wooden church was covered with bricks. This is the building you see today. Reverend Moses T. Smith was the pastor for 26 years, from 1937 to 1963. This was the longest time any pastor had served the church. Today, Reverend Linda B. Vanager leads this historic church.
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