Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church
The oldest parcel of land continuously
owned by African-Americans
The Experience
Walk on hallowed ground when you visit Mother Bethel AME Church, the mother church of the nation's first black denomination. Founded in 1797, the church rests upon the oldest parcel of land continuously owned by African-Americans.
The church memorializes Rev. Richard Allen, its founding pastor and first bishop. A basement crypt serves as as museum, housing Allen's tomb and other intriguing artifacts including original pews and the original pulpit constructed and used by Rev. Allen. Recently installed exhibits depict the church's role as an underground Railroad station.
While visiting the church don't miss its collection of huge stained glass windows with both religious and Masonic images.
History
Mother Bethel origins date back to 1797 when Rev. Richard Allen and Absalom Jones encouraged black worshippers to form their own congregations after being forced to sit in the balconies during services at some of the city's traditional white churches.
The church's original structure was actually a wood frame blacksmith shop that Allen purchased and had moved to the church's current location. In addition to his religious leadership, Allen was a prominent political and abolitionist activist. Mother Bethel was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1974.