Greater Ward A.M.E. Church Plaque

Can you feel the echoes of history here at Greater Ward A.M.E. Church? This plaque commemorates a church that has been a cornerstone of the Acres Homes Community for over a century. Greater Ward A.M.E. Church, originally Ward Chapel, started humbly in 1913. The church was named for Bishop Thomas M.D. Ward, a significant figure in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. The first services were held in the home of Reverend John T. and Mrs. Cassie Williams on Tuskegee Street. The congregation worked tirelessly, eventually building their first church building. Sadly, this building was destroyed by fire in 1934. The Wright Land Company donated two lots on Apollo Street for a new church. But the congregation chose to rebuild on Arabella and Granville instead. Interestingly, the church was mistakenly built on the wrong lots. This wasn’t resolved until 35 years later with an official affidavit. A new sanctuary was built on the east side of Arabella in 1955. The dedication service was led by Bishop H. Thomas Primm in 1957. Reverend O.L. Dawson served as pastor for two decades. He was a strong community activist. He used the church as a platform for social and civic discussions. He was involved with the NAACP, Acres Homes Church Union, and other organizations. The church also hosted various ministries. There were choirs, the Daughters of Ward, and the Allen Christian League. The church’s legacy extends beyond its walls. Trustee Wiley Adams was instrumental in naming nearby streets after historically Black colleges. These streets include Tuskegee, Wilberforce, Paul Quinn, and Dillard. In 2007, the church’s name officially changed to Greater Ward A.M.E. Church. Greater Ward A.M.E. Church continues to be a symbol of resilience, faith, and community engagement.