Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church
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Metropolitan AME Church in 2025
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 Location in Central Washington, D.C.
Location in the District of Columbia
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1518 M Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. |
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| Area | 0.3 acres (0.12 ha) |
| Built | 1886 |
| Architect | Samuel G. T. Morsell |
| Architectural style | Gothic Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 73002102 |
| Added to NRHP | July 26, 1973 |
Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church (often called "Metropolitan AME Church") is a very old and important church. It is located at 1518 M Street, N.W., in downtown Washington, D.C.. This church is part of the African Methodist Episcopal Church group.
Contents
History of Metropolitan AME Church
The church community started way back in 1838. It was first known as Union Bethel (Metropolitan) A. M. E. Church. In 1880, John W. Stevenson was chosen to lead the church. His goal was to build a brand new church building.
Building the New Church
The first stone for the new building was placed in September 1881. The new church building was officially opened on May 30, 1886. George Dearing was the architect who designed it. The church believes it is the oldest property in Washington, D.C., that has always been owned by Black people.
Important Events at the Church
Many important events have happened at Metropolitan AME Church. The funerals for famous people were held here. These included Frederick Douglass in 1895, who fought against slavery. Also, Rosa Parks in 2005, a civil rights leader, had her funeral here. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. This means it is a special place in history.
Metropolitan AME Church in the 21st Century
In May 2010, the National Trust for Historic Preservation added the church to a list. It was named one of "America's Most Endangered Places." This was because of water damage and other problems. The church needed a lot of money for repairs.
Presidential Visit
On January 20, 2013, President Barack Obama attended church services here. This was just before his second inauguration.
Recent Challenges and Legal Action
In December 2020, a banner was taken from the church. This banner supported the Black Lives Matter movement. It was later burned during a protest. The church took legal action against the group responsible.
In June 2023, a judge ordered the group and some of its members to pay over $1 million. This was because of their actions against the church. On February 3, 2025, another judge ordered them to pay $2.8 million. The church also gained rights to the group's name and trademarks.
Gallery
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Carol M. Highsmith's 2010 photograph of the church.
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A band in the church, 2010; also photographed by Highsmith.
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Exterior of the church in 2025, with Black Lives Matter banner visible
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The facade in 2020.
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2025 interior during President's Day Press Conference.
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See also
- National Register of Historic Places listings in the District of Columbia
Images for kids
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Interior of the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2025.
