“A spiritual cornerstone” is how it all began. I’m talking about the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church Plaque here in Austin. This plaque commemorates a church with a rich history. Let’s take a closer look at the story of this place.
The Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church had its start in the early 1870s. A group of dedicated Black men and women gathered in Tempie Washington’s home to worship God. These Christians laid the spiritual cornerstone for African Methodism in Austin. Their religious fervor led to a concern for the education of young people. In 1872, just two years after the church was organized, Paul Quinn College was born.
Originally in Waco, Paul Quinn College proudly stands in Dallas today. Minister Frank Green became the first official pastor in 1873. Under his guidance, Metropolitan bought its first church building. It was on the east side of San Antonio Street, lot 1 and block 101. This area had been set aside for churches and schools in Austin’s original planning.
Improvements were made to the structure over time. In November 1883, exterior walls were built and a slate roof was laid. Metropolitan became the only building owned by Black people to have a slate roof. Only the bell tower remained incomplete.
As Metropolitan grew, it adjusted to a succession of ministers. These included Minister Frank Green and Reverend Edward Hammett. Also serving were Reverend Jackson, Reverend W.H. Ross, and Reverend Abraham Grant.
September 21, 1986 marked a significant day. Under Reverend Dr. David Harris’s leadership, Metropolitan unveiled its Historical Marker. The Texas Historical Commission presented it. Then, on April 23, 1987, the City changed the base zoning. It went from “SF-3 Family Residence” to “SF-Family Residence-Historical”. This change applied to the property owned by the church.
Seven Projects for Progress were completed in 1995. The church acquired two lots behind it. An elevator was installed. A Baby Grand Piano was purchased. The choir loft was extended. Thirteen stained glass windows were installed. The rear of the church was extended, adding four rooms. These included a choir room, Stewardess room, Minister’s lounge and a storage room. Finally, the sanctuary was re-carpeted.
In 2004, Reverend N. Jordan Mkwanazi was assigned to Metropolitan.
Metropolitan A.M.E. Church has seen forty pastors over its existence. Each pastor has helped Metropolitan become the outstanding church that it is today.
So, as you stand here before the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church Plaque, remember this story. It is a story of faith, education, and community. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Black community in Austin.