Didn’t the draft riots of 1863 leave an indelible mark on Saint Philip’s Episcopal Church? This wasn’t just a place of worship. It was a sanctuary forged in the crucible of social change. Saint Philip’s Episcopal Church stands proudly in Harlem. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of its congregation.
Founded in 1809 the church has a rich history. Free African Americans from Trinity Church established it. They sought their own space for worship. Originally known as the Free African Church of St. Philip the church is the oldest black Episcopal parish in New York City.
Let’s step back in time. Picture the first church foundation stone laid in 1819. The Reverend Peter Williams Jr. was a leading abolitionist. He served as the first rector from 1826 to 1840. He was the first African-American Episcopal priest in New York. Williams was a key figure in the American Anti-Slavery Society. The church became a hub for abolitionist activities.
The early members of Saint Philip’s were upwardly mobile. They achieved financial success in service industries. Education and character were highly valued. Black Episcopalians built upon their church connections. Some found opportunities in marine trades. Others became teachers, doctors, grocers and restaurateurs.
Saint Philip’s has moved several times. The first two sites were on 122 Centre Street. A brick building replaced the original wood frame church in 1822. Social unrest caused damage requiring renovations. Whites vandalized the church in 1834. During the Civil War New York City police used it as a barracks. This caused more damage during the 1863 draft riots.
As New York City expanded Saint Philip’s relocated uptown. By 1886 it was on 25th Street. Around 1909 the church sold the property for $600000. With the money they bought the current site and ten apartment buildings in Harlem.
The current Saint Philip’s Episcopal Church building was built between 1910 and 1911. Tandy & Foster designed it in the Neo-Gothic style. Vertner Woodson Tandy was the first African-American architect licensed in New York State. George Washington Foster Jr. was among the first licensed in New Jersey.
The church has seen stable leadership. Reverend Hutchens C. Bishop served as rector for 47 years. His son Shelton Hale Bishop followed in his footsteps. He served as rector from 1933 to 1957.
Saint Philip’s was designated a New York City Landmark in 1993. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008.
Notable parishioners include Thomas Jennings and Thomas Downing. His son George T. Downing and Dr. James McCune Smith were also members. W. E. B. Du Bois and Thurgood Marshall were also members. Langston Hughes found spiritual home here.
Throughout its history Saint Philip’s has been at the forefront of social activism. It addressed injustice. It secured civil rights and economic justice. The church purchased a cemetery for New York’s African Americans. It established the Female Assistance Society. This provided aid to sick residents. Saint Christopher’s Club was created for teenage boys. The church bought apartment buildings. This ensured fair housing for African Americans.
Today Saint Philip’s continues its commitment to the community. It offers programs for children and teenagers. It supports the elderly the sick and the poor. It promotes theater jazz and studio arts.
Saint Philip’s Episcopal Church stands as a symbol. It is a testament to faith resilience and community. It is a place where history whispers from every brick. It is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.