Bethel AME Church, Parkersburg (1887-2005)

Introduction

Text-to-speech Audio

Bethel AME was one of three Black churches built in Parkersburg and was the oldest Black church building in central WV. The church was demolished over a decade ago when the congregation moved into new building with same name on Laird Ave.

Images

Bethel A.M.E Church in 1999.

Backstory and Context

Text-to-speech Audio

Built in 1887, this two-story, stucco, Gothic Revival style building served the local African-American Methodist community.

One of three Black churches in Parkersburg and the oldest in central West Virginia, this building served the congregation for a number of decades. So far it is unknown when it was abandoned and the reason for abandonment. The Bethel AME congregation now meets at a newer building on Laird Ave. The original church building was added to the NRHP in 1982 and demolished a number of years afterwards.

***Very little is preserved about the church and more information is sorely needed. Along with information, any photos of the church are needed as well.

Sources

Enoch, Bob . Historical newspaper excerpts from the Wood County Historical Society , December 1st 2018. Accessed April 8th 2020. https://www.newsandsentinel.com/opinion/local-columns/2018/12/look-back-area-churches-make-the-news/.

Image Sources(Click to expand)