1905— Rev. Robert R. Downs was pastor when lots were purchased for $6,000 at the location where our church now stands.
1906— In December, the building was finished and dedicated under the administration of Rev. J. M. Henderson. It was built of gray pressed brick with sandstone trimmings. The seating capacity was nearly 1,000 and cost about $40,000 to build.
During the same time of purchasing the church lots, a parsonage on St. Clair Avenue was purchased for $2,000. It was sold in 1920, and an eight room brick at 171 Lexington was purchased for $6,000 as a minister’s residence. In addition to its own work, St. Paul was a great aid in the origin of three other A.M.E. Churches. They are: Mt. Vernon Church, Third, and Fourth Missions.
1920— In March, under Rev. E. A. Clark, a new organ was completed at a cost of over $7,408.00, in less than eighteen months.
1932— The original Austin Pipe Organ was built.
1956— Since that time, property acquisitions were made so that St. Paul could expand. Under their tireless and effective leadership, the pastors and their appointments are: Reverend Alvia A. Shaw, 1956; Reverend Andrew A. Hughey, 1968; and Reverend Thomas E. Liggins, 1973.
1989— In November, Rev. Dr. Michael R. Bean, Sr. was appointed pastor. Under his administration a complete renovation of the Church was completed, along with the renovation of the Church Annex and all church properties.
The Original Austin Pipe Organ was rebuilt and enlarged. Pastor Bean introduced the theme: “A People Ready for Ministry” – to reach out and to serve. Many Outreach Programs are developed servicing the church family and the community.
1999— The gas station at the corner of Jefferson and Long was purchased. Later it was demolished and the property was landscaped in preparation for future building.
2003— A Vision—for a Wellness Center and Administration Complex. Building Fund/Pledge, Remembering the Past... Ministering in the Present... Preparing for the Future.
In July, dedication of St. Paul's Historical Marker recognized as the oldest African American Church in the City of Columbus. The marker is only one of 12 statewide celebrating the contributions of African Americans to the growth of Ohio. It was presented by the Ohio Historical Society in Celebration of Ohio's Bicentennial.
In August, computerized renderings of the Wellness Center and Administration Complex were unveiled at our church conference.
In December, 180th Anniversary Celebration of our founding. First called Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, St. Paul A.M.E. Church was organized in 1823—2003.
2004— June 14 Ground Breaking Ceremony. Worship Speaker, Bishop Robert Vaughn Webster, Presiding Prelate of the Third Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church. The Honorable Michael B. Coleman, Mayor, City of Columbus, and other dignitaries were in attendance.
2005— March, excavation of lots At The Corner of Long and Jefferson Avenue. Building – Phase I
2005— Sunday, April 24 Centennial Celebration Worship Service
1905 - 2005
“100 Years At The Corner —A House Unified For Christ”
Guest Speaker: The Honorable Michael B. Coleman,
Mayor,
City of Columbus, Ohio
St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church Community Property Development Corporation
▸ The Complex is an investment of 3.25 million dollars.
▸ The Complex will be an estimated 26,000 sq. ft.
▸ The Complex will offer Family Medicine, Women’s Health and Cardiovascular Services.
▸ The Complex will have Classrooms that will be equipped with state of the art technological capabilities. These Rooms will be
available for lease to community groups.
▸ The Complex will be a wireless facility.
▸ The Complex will have a Multi-Purpose Room equipped with a Production Stage. This room will be able to accommodate an estimated
300 people, banquet style, and approximately 600 classroom style. This Room will also be technologically sophisticated and available
for rent. A Commercial Kitchen will also be within this space.
Following is a statement taken from the St. Paul A.M.E. Church Centennial Celebration Program in 1923. It was held in our present edifice built in 1905. A copy can be found in our church archives.
“As was the early churches, our present plant must be enlarged and to that end all are bending their efforts.”
“As the church starts on another century it is our hope and our prayer that it may be a glorious church without spot, wrinkle or blemish or any such thing.”
To God Be The Glory