“Beacon of African American culture” is a fitting description for Mount Zion Methodist Episcopal Church. Founded in 1816 Mount Zion United Methodist Church is the oldest African American congregation in D.C.. Its story is one of resilience faith and the pursuit of equality.
In 1816 black parishioners both free and enslaved faced prejudice at Montgomery Street Church. Now known as Dumbarton United Methodist Church it wasn’t a welcoming place for them. So 125 black members made a bold decision. They left to establish their own church. They sought a space where they could worship without discrimination. They purchased land on Mill Street now 27th Street in Georgetown. There they built a brick church known as the Meeting House and Little Ark. In 1844 the church was renamed Mount Zion Methodist Episcopal Church.
Mount Zion played many roles. It was a house of worship and a place for political meetings. It was also a school. Most importantly Mount Zion was a station on the Underground Railroad. During the years before the Civil War the church provided a safe haven for freedom seekers. Fugitives were hidden in the windowless burial vault of the Old Methodist Burying Ground now Mt. Zion Cemetery. They sometimes spent weeks among the dead. This was until safe passage could be arranged.
Members of Mount Zion actively fought against slavery. They joined national anti-slavery groups. During the Civil War Mount Zion members served in the Union Army’s Colored Troops. After the war church members became active in Washington politics.
By the 1870s the congregation had grown. In 1884 a new Mount Zion Methodist Episcopal Church was dedicated on 29th Street. The church acquired the Old Methodist Burying Ground in 1879. They renamed it Mt. Zion Cemetery.
In the early 20th century Mount Zion was one of the largest African American churches in Washington. In 1920 the church bought an English style cottage. It became a Community House for neighborhood children. Today it’s known as the Mt. Zion Heritage Centre. It’s the only remaining structure of its kind in D.C..
During the 1930s and 40s Georgetown changed. Urban renewal and gentrification forced many Mount Zion members to leave. Reverend James D. Foy spoke before Congress in 1950 about the impact of these changes. Despite these challenges Mount Zion persevered.
From the 1950s to the 1970s legal battles took place over two African American cemeteries near the church. Developers wanted to acquire the properties. Black people had been buried there since 1808. After many court hearings it was ruled in 1977 that the cemeteries could not be sold.
Mount Zion’s legacy includes the birthplace of Bishop Leontine Turpeau Current Kelly. She was the first African American woman elected as bishop in the United Methodist Church. Today Mount Zion continues its mission. It offers meals to those in need and sponsors educational programs. The church leads historic preservation efforts and advocates for human rights.
As you stand before Mount Zion remember its history. Think about the courage of its founders. Appreciate its role in the fight for freedom and equality. Mount Zion United Methodist Church remains a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring power of faith.