Today we visited the Mother Bethel AME church, which belonged to the nation’s first black denomination. As we sat in its beautiful sanctuary, we learned about the history of Richard Allen, the founder of the church. We also learned about the history of the building itself, from the story in the stained glass windows to the buying of the new organ piano. After we left, we walked through Washington Square. We were told of the many freed and enslaved African Americans that went there to dance and join together. By then the rainy weather had cleared up nicely, just in time for us to arrive at The Bourse. There were many restaurants to choose from, ranging from Egyptian food to Philly cheesesteaks. After lunch we walked to the African American Museum. While there, we got to witness many forms of art. There was modern photography and old art; however, the overall theme of African culture could be seen through every piece of artwork. After seeing three floors of African American history, our school bus arrived and we hopped on and made our way back to Moorestown Friends.
Mother Bethel Richard Allen’s Tomb The AAMP
Finding her ancestor William Still’s name on the wall! Washington Square
