Here at 201 Lenox Avenue stands Mount Olive Church. It is more than just a building. It is a testament to faith and community. Mount Olive Church has a rich history deeply intertwined with Harlem’s story.
Established in 1876 as Gethsemane Mission, it faced resistance. White religious powers initially opposed its founding. But the determined members persevered. In 1878, it was officially recognized as a church. The original building stood on 53rd Street and 6th Avenue. It was celebrated as the most beautiful black church in New York City. Today the New York Hilton stands there.
In the 1920s, Mount Olive Church played an important role for followers of Marcus Garvey. They prepared for their voyage to Africa within its walls. In 1925, Mount Olive Church moved to Harlem. It found its new home on Lenox Avenue and 120th Street. The building had been Temple Israel. It was an elegant synagogue. The congregation purchased it for $450000. This was the largest sum paid by a black congregation for a worship house at that time. Architectural features of the synagogue are still visible today.
Rev. Daniel Washington Wisher was Mount Olive’s first pastor. He organized the Original Grant Guards. It was New York State’s first colored militia. He also bought land in Bellport Long Island. He wanted to foster a colored colony. He established an orphanage and a home for the elderly there. Rev. Wisher was involved with the New York Anti-Slavery Society. He was the youngest president of the New England Baptist Missionary Convention.
Other Mount Olive pastors were known for their activism. Rev. C. T. Walker founded the Harlem YM and YWCA. Dr. William Preston ran for Congress. He also spearheaded the relocation to Harlem. Dr. O. Clay Maxwell opened Harlem’s first after-school program.
The church’s current pastor is Rev. Dr. Charles A. Curtis. He continues the tradition of community involvement. He was key in passing the Global Sullivan Principles. These principles promote justice in the business sector. Mount Olive Church now runs a food program three days a week. It provides clothing to those in need. It serves as a forum for political figures to address the Harlem community. Because of this, it is known as the Community Church.
In 1958, Mount Olive Baptist Church contracted with the Estey Organ Company to build a new organ. The organ was dedicated on November 30 1958. Charles Ennis played the organ.
Mount Olive Church stands as a beacon of hope and activism. Its history reflects Harlem’s struggles and triumphs. As you stand here, remember the voices that echoed within these walls. Think of the community that found solace and strength here. Mount Olive Church remains a vital part of Harlem. It continues to serve and uplift its community.