What if walls could talk? The Greater Centennial African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church has many stories to tell. Right here in Mount Vernon, New York, this church isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of a community. Greater Centennial A.M.E. Zion Church has been a beacon of hope and resilience since its official founding in 1896. It all began in the home of Mrs. Anna Green, at the corner of Eleventh Avenue and Eastchester Lane. A small group gathered with a shared dream. They wanted to establish a colored Methodist church in Mount Vernon. This group included individuals like A. Lyle, Allen Banks, and William Keeler. Also present were Sisters W.H. Ely, R.A. Lyle, and of course, Anna Green herself. Their first official meeting place as a church was a humble frame building on the corner of South Ninth Avenue and West Third Street. However, the roots of the A.M.E. Zion Church in Mount Vernon go even deeper. Historian Dr. Larry H. Spruill’s research reveals a fascinating detail. The A.M.E. Zion Church, led by Rev. Jacob Thomas, had a presence in Mount Vernon as early as 1868. This makes Greater Centennial A.M.E. Zion Church the first independently organized African American religious group in the city. While 1896 is celebrated as the official founding year, marking the formal organization under Rev. W.H. Ely, the seeds of faith were sown much earlier. Today, Greater Centennial African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church stands at 312 S 8th Ave, a symbol of faith and perseverance. It serves the Genesee-Moselle neighborhood, offering not just spiritual guidance, but also vital community services. The church embraces its mission of community service through faith, fostering youth development, and promoting inspirational gospel music. It strives to be a place where community members connect, grow, and thrive.
Gould Family Mausoleum
Ever heard of a “Robber Baron?” Here at Woodlawn Cemetery stands the Gould Family Mausoleum. It is a testament to