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ST PAUL A.M.E. CHURCH" |
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Early 1900s Early in 1900 the black population began to move eastward. St. Paul virtually pioneered the movement as large blocks of business began to surround the church. Daughters of Conference Under the administration of Rev. Downs, the Daughters of Conference was organized in 1904. He asked ten women to be responsible for providing housing in their homes or in the community for the delegates to the Annual Conference who would be arriving by horseback, in buggies or carriages. They were also asked to prepare and serve meals in their homes since the church - located on Long Street near High) did not have a kitchen or dinning facility. The Daughters of Conference were instrumental in raising funds to help underwrite the upcoming Conference expenses. In 1905, under the pastorate of Rev. Robert R. Downs, lots were purchased for $6,000 at the location where the church now stands, 639 E. Long Street. Erection of the edifice began immediately and was completed at a cost of $40,000 under the pastorate of Rev. J.W. Henderson. The original color of the building was grey, pressed brick with sandstone trim, and considered at it's completion as one of the imposing churches of the city. It is artistically arranged through, with classrooms, assembly room, and with food preparation facilities. A pipe organ was installed in March, 1920, at a cost of $7,408.00. Mrs. Emma Coleman had the distinction and honor of paying the last $10.00 due on the organ debit in 1921.
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Rev Downs Rev Downs was one of the notable men of his day and generation, and merited the high esteem in which he was held. A brief outline of the history of St. Paul during his administration was recently forwarded to the Historical Committee by his daughter, from which we quote in part: Rev. Downs, assisted by the regular Trustees and Stewards of the church arranged for the sale of the building (downtown location). He then advised the purchase of the lot in the location upon which the present building now stands. I know that the design and plans were his own. They were converted to blueprint form by one of the architectural firms in Columbus... "On the new lot, the land was cleared and two Negro contractors were hired from Birmingham, Alabama. They were the Windham Brothers. My father superintended all plans and bills. After the sale of the old church building, services were held in two rented storerooms directly across from the lot mentioned. This I know, as we, the children were required to do any janitorial work, dusting, arranging rows of seats, setting out hymnals, etc., in addition to collecting some after services. This done without pay!"..."Previous to any building, a picnic or celebration was held by the membership on the lot. There was speech-making, singing and refreshments served by the women of the church. "The new Building was begun and completed to the first floor at which point the cornerstone ceremonies were held on Sunday. There had been much discussion as to the nature of the contents of the box which was to be placed in the cornerstone. The pastor, officers and members finally decided upon the following items: 1. A small Bible (King James Version);
2. The Discipline of the AME church; |
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