Galloway United Methodist Church

Whispers of freedom echoed through the grove of trees where Galloway United Methodist Church now stands. Long before its brick and mortar presence, enslaved African Americans sought solace and spiritual connection on this very ground, part of the Dulany Plantation. Today, in front of Galloway United Methodist Church, we uncover a story of resilience and faith. Galloway United Methodist Church’s story begins before the Civil War, with whispers of hope among the enslaved community. Encouraged by Elder Hiram Reed, a white minister, they held secret worship services amidst the trees. After emancipation, Harriet and George Brice, former slaves, opened their home for prayer meetings. With the help of Jacob Ross, they envisioned a dedicated space for worship. Harriet and Frances Jackson tirelessly raised funds, even selling berries in Washington D.C. markets. George, with the assistance of his employer, John S. Crocker, a retired Union colonel, secured land in 1867. This land, once part of the Dulany Plantation, became the foundation for their dream. The first trustees, Robert Gunnell, George Rumbles, and Sandy Parker, oversaw the construction of a simple log structure, built from a repurposed train platform. This humble building served not only as a church but also as a school. Miss Sue Riddle, a white educator, taught reading, writing, and Sunday school. The first organized Sunday school for African Americans in Falls Church blossomed under her guidance. The church, initially known as First Methodist Episcopal Church (colored), joined the Falls Church Circuit. The circuit included churches in Falls Church, McLean, Langley, and Hunter’s Mill. The church thrived under the leadership of several pastors, including Rev. Edgar Murphy, Rev. Robert Wheeler, Rev. Charles W. Walker, Rev. George R. Walker, and Rev. Noble Watkins. Recognizing the need for a larger space, Harriet Brice sought help from her former slave master, William Y. Dulin. Dulin generously donated timber from his land. Church members, including Rev. Watkins, a skilled carpenter, hewed the lumber and constructed a new edifice, named Watkins Chapel. In 1887, the town of Falls Church annexed the predominantly African American section south of Lee Highway to Fairfax County. This act of segregation further solidified the importance of Watkins Chapel as a center of community life. The church continued to grow. In 1901, it was renamed Galloway Chapel, after Rev. John Galloway. The church expanded with a completed basement in 1918 and a renovated parsonage in 1920. Galloway’s history is interwoven with the struggle for civil rights. Members Joseph Tinner and Louis Summerall, along with Dr. Edwin B. Henderson, established the Colored Citizens Protection League, a precursor to the first rural NAACP chapter. Joseph Tinner, a powerful orator, tirelessly fought against the city council’s segregation plans. Galloway’s physical structure bears witness to the dedication of its members. Melvin Tinner, a skilled craftsman, carved the prayer railing. Stained-glass windows, installed in 1924, were funded by dedicated members like Mrs. Mattie Brown Hunter and Mrs. Fannie Richards. Throughout its history, Galloway United Methodist Church has been a beacon of hope. It has nurtured spiritual growth, provided education, championed civil rights, and served as a vital center for the African American community in Falls Church. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the unwavering pursuit of justice.