In 1833, a small group of devout Christians gathered in Richard Berry’s home at 4100 Ludlow Street in Philadelphia. This marked the humble beginnings of Mount Pisgah African Methodist Episcopal Church. They later joined forces with Richard Allen and the Bethel Corporation. Their first church building, a simple frame structure, was erected on Locust Street near 40th Street. The members themselves, both men and women, built the church. They worked their regular jobs during the day and dedicated their evenings to constructing their sacred space. Mount Pisgah African Methodist Episcopal Church officially became incorporated in April 1847. The church’s first stewards were Cyrus Burton, William Harris, and Charles Lendum. The first trustees were John Henry, Curtis Kane, and Michael Johnson. Roberta Washington holds a special place in Mount Pisgah’s history as the first woman trustee. In 1942, under the leadership of Reverend E.K. Nichols Sr., the congregation moved to its current location. Tragedy struck just a year later when a devastating fire ravaged the new building. Only the foundation and outer walls remained. Undeterred, the congregation worshipped in tents throughout the harsh winter. With unwavering faith and the support of the community, they began rebuilding a bigger and better Mount Pisgah. Reverend Emmer H. Booker, assigned to the church in 1943, inspired the members with his vision and belief in the power of God. By August 1944, the restored church, complete with “stars in its ceiling,” was ready. Mount Pisgah gained national recognition in the 1980s when it served as the filming location for the NBC sitcom “AMEN.” The church’s beautiful stone Gothic walls became familiar to viewers across the nation as the fictional “First Community Church.” Throughout its history, Mount Pisgah has been a center of community outreach and spiritual growth. It has hosted numerous sessions of the Philadelphia Annual Conference and continues to serve God and the community through its various ministries.
Gould Family Mausoleum
Ever heard of a “Robber Baron?” Here at Woodlawn Cemetery stands the Gould Family Mausoleum. It is a testament to