Sharp Street Memorial United Methodist Church and Community House facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Sharp Street Memorial United Methodist Church and Community House
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 Location in Baltimore
Location in Maryland
Location in the United States
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| Location | 508--516 Dolphin St. & 1206--1210 Etting St., Baltimore, Maryland |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1898 |
| Architect | Bieler, Alphonsus H.; Noel, Edgar M. |
| Architectural style | Colonial Revival, Gothic Revival, Georgian Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 82004749 |
| Added to NRHP | July 21, 1982 |
The Sharp Street Memorial United Methodist Church and Community House is a very old and important church in Baltimore, Maryland. It is known for its beautiful buildings and its big role in history. This church helped many African Americans in their fight for freedom and education. It is even called the "Mother Church" of Black Methodism in Maryland.
The church building was finished in 1898. The Community House was built later, in 1921. Both buildings are important examples of old architecture. Because of its history and design, the church was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. This means it is a special place protected for its historical value.
Contents
A Look at the Buildings
The main church building was built in 1898. It has a style called Gothic Revival. This means it looks like old European churches. It is made of stone and has very tall, pointed roofs called gables. There is also a tall, square bell tower that stands 85 feet high. The windows are long and narrow, known as lancet windows. Inside, you can see many decorative details that also follow the Gothic style.
The Community House was built in 1921. It is a brick building with four stories. Its style is called Georgian Revival. This style often uses classic, balanced designs. It looks a bit like buildings from the 1700s.
A Rich History
The Sharp Street Memorial United Methodist Church has a very long and important history. Its congregation, or group of members, first started in 1787. This was a time when slavery was still common in the United States.
Helping the Freedom Movement
The church played a huge part in the movement to end slavery. This was known as the "antebellum freedom movement." It was a safe and important place for African Americans seeking freedom. The church helped people escape slavery and find new lives.
Education and Community
After slavery was abolished, the church continued its important work. It helped start the very first school for Black children in Baltimore. This school was called the African Academy. It gave many children a chance to learn when they might not have had one otherwise.
The church also helped create the African American Methodist church. This was a big step in allowing Black communities to have their own religious leaders and organizations.
A Meeting Place for Change
In its early years, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) held meetings at this historic church. The NAACP is a very important group that works for civil rights and equality for African Americans. The church provided a place for them to plan and organize their efforts to fight for justice.
See also
- African Academy and Sharp Street Methodist Church (1797–1898)
External links
- Sharp Street Memorial United Methodist Church and Community House, Baltimore City, including undated photo, at Maryland Historical Trust
- Sharp Street Memorial United Methodist Church website
