St. Peter A.M.E. Church

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, St. Peter A.M.E. Church is one of the oldest African American congregations in New Orleans. The church itself is important for its architecture, Black history, and its association with social and humanitarian causes. It was originally built in 1858 and underwent significant modifications in 1890 and 1924.

The church was built in 1858 for the Jefferson City Methodist Episcopal Church, which was a white congregation. St. Peter A.M.E. was founded in 1850 and its members worshipped in a nearby house. Eventually, the church allowed them to worship in the basement. In 1877, the church sold the building to St. Peter A.M.E. In terms of architecture, the church features stained-glass windows and a shingle-covered tower, both of which are unique features to Black churches. In respect to social and humanitarian causes, the church has been an important player in the community. In the 1920s and then 1930s nursing classes and business/secretarial classes were held here, respectively. During the 1930s the Works Progress Administration (WPA) opened an office at the church and for many years helped people find jobs. In the 1960s and 1970s boy and cub scouts held their meetings at the church. Community gatherings and other social events continue at the church today. 

"The History of St. Peter A.M.E. Church." St. Peter A.M.E. Church. Accessed January 19, 2017. http://www.hisstpeterchurch.org. 

"St. Peter A.M.E. Church." National Register of Historic Places Database: Louisiana Office of Cultural Development, Division of Historic Preservation. 

*Note: This document was either written for or taken from the National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form, which has not been digitized as of 2017.

Photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons