State Street AME Zion Church facts for kids
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State Street AME Zion Church
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State Street AME Zion Church in 2009
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 Location in Mobile, Alabama
Location in Alabama
Location in the United States
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| Location | 502 State Street Mobile, Alabama, United States |
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| Built | 1854 |
| Architectural style | Romanesque |
| NRHP reference No. | 78000505 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | September 06, 1978 |
The State Street African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church is a very old and important African American church in Mobile, Alabama. It is known as the oldest Methodist church building in Alabama. It is also one of only two African American churches in Mobile that started in the Methodist tradition before the American Civil War.
Contents
History of the Church
How the Church Began
The church first started in 1829. It was called the African Church of the City of Mobile. At that time, it was a special project, or "mission," of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. This meant it was supported by a larger church group to help serve the African American community.
Building and Growth
The very first church building unfortunately burned down. But the people of the church were determined! They built the current church building in 1854. Just one year later, in 1855, the church had grown to 550 members. This made it one of the largest and most active African American churches in Alabama.
Joining a New Church Family
After the American Civil War ended, many African Americans gained more freedom. The church members decided to join the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. This was a big step, as it was a church created by and for African Americans.
However, the old church group, the Methodist Episcopal Church South, tried to say that the congregation no longer had the right to use the building. But the church members fought for their rights! Their second minister, Wilbur G. Strong, led them. In 1872, they won the legal right to keep their building.
A Special Landmark
Because of its unique design and important history, the State Street African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 6, 1978. This means it is recognized as a special place that is important to the history of the United States.
