Perhaps you’re wondering about the origins of this Caldwell African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. This church began humbly but grew into a cornerstone of its community. Let’s journey back to its founding.
Caldwell African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church started as a mission in 1931. It was located in a Bronx storefront. Anna Leftage a Sunday School teacher founded it. She was a devout Christian in the A.M.E. Zion Church.
By 1933 the mission thrived. It became the first Zion church of the New York Conference. This was significant as it was separate from the Mother Church. The church was named in honor of Bishop Josiah S. Caldwell. Reverends John A. Matthews and George A. Taylor were early pastors. They guided the initial congregation.
Anna Leftage dreamed of a permanent home for Caldwell A.M.E. Zion Church. Her dream came true on September 10 1944. Reverend Carnes Mckinney relocated the congregation to this present site. He was a dedicated and hardworking pastor.
Reverend Mckinney served Caldwell and the community for 33 years. His leadership transformed Caldwell into a notable church in the Bronx. His spiritual guidance was invaluable.
The Caldwell African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church also boasts a rich musical history. The church houses an Eifert and Stoehr organ built in 1912. This organ features mechanical key action and pneumatic pedal. It also has stop action. It has two manuals 16 registers and 15 ranks.
The Great Organ has several features. These include an Open Diapason Dulciana and Melodia. There is also a Principal Viol d’Gamba and Flauto Dolce. The Swell Organ offers a Bourdon Oboe Gamba and Open Diapason. It has a Flute Harmonique Stopped Diapason and Piccolo. A Salicional Tremulant and Vox Celeste are also included. The Pedal Organ includes a Subbass and Lieblich Gedeckt.
This organ has couplers. Swell to Great Great to Pedal and Swell to Pedal are included. There are three mechanical combination pistons for both Swell and Great. The organ also features balanced Great and Swell Pedals. It also offers a Grand Crescendo Pedal.
Caldwell A.M.E. Zion Church stands as a testament. It shows the power of faith community and perseverance. From a small storefront mission to a significant Bronx church its journey is inspiring. Remember Anna Leftage and Reverend Mckinney. Their dedication shaped this Caldwell African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church.