That bell. It still rings out over Alexandria. Have you heard its resonant peal? It’s a sound that echoes the history of Meade Memorial Episcopal Church.
Right here before us stands Meade Memorial Episcopal Church. It’s a predominantly Black Episcopal Church. Its roots stretch back to 1870. Founded as a mission of Christ Church Alexandria it served new migrants after the Civil War. Its original location was near Montgomery and Columbus Streets. This was convenient for both Black and White parishioners. The first chapel held 150 worshippers. White seminarians led services under Christ Church’s rector.
Meade Chapel had a significant role in educating Black children. John J. Lloyd directed a thriving Sunday school. This was crucial as Virginia had prohibited Black education for thirty years before the war. The demand for learning was immense. The chapel’s bell called parishioners to worship. It also served as a school bell for the neighborhood children. This very same bell still hangs proudly in front of Meade Memorial Episcopal Church today on Alfred Street.
In 1872 a desire for self-segregation within the Black community emerged. This led to Meade Chapel being placed at their disposal for a year. Fifty signatures were needed from those promising regular worship. They also had to pay for fuel. The signatures were quickly gathered. By April 16 1873 the Alexandria Gazette announced that Meade Chapel would be used by colored Episcopalians. It would remain under Christ Church’s control.
The same year the church building was moved. This wooden structure capable of holding well over 150 people was moved south down Columbus Street. This was a significant undertaking. There were some neighborhood complaints. The relocation was completed and the first service in the new location at the corner of Columbus and Princess Streets happened on May 18 1876.
John J. Lloyd remained a pillar of the Meade community. The Sunday school flourished with 50 to 90 children. A parish day school was established educating around 100 young scholars. Rev John H M Pollard became the first Black minister in 1876. He later became an archdeacon in North Carolina.
After several years of being pastored by White seminarians and eventually by Black seminarians from the Bishop Payne Divinity School Meade Chapel applied to become an independent parish. This happened in May 1890. Meade Chapel became Meade Memorial Church.
By 1907 the old wooden structure was dilapidated. Funds were raised to build a new church. The new brick chapel opened in February 1913 on Princess and Alfred Streets.
The church stood as a beacon. It served as a social political and economic center. It was a vital part of the Black community during segregation. A parish hall was added in 1956. The sanctuary was modernized. The church continues its dedication to the community today. Its legacy is woven into the fabric of Alexandria. This church continues to be a testament to faith perseverance and community. It’s a beautiful example of a church’s enduring impact on the community it serves.