Historic Bethel AME

Bethel AME has played an essential role in the spiritual, social, civic and educational history of St. Pete’s African-American community, especially that of the neighborhood known as “Methodist Town.” In 1894, the original building was a wooden structure located on the same property. By 1905, that congregation outgrew the original building and the masonry church building known as the “stone church” was constructed in two phases.

In 1922, construction began on the present brick edifice architecturally based on the Gothic Revival style. It is modeled after Mother Bethel, the denominational connection landmark church in Philadelphia. The new church was literally built over the existing masonry, and according to historical records, only one Sunday service was suspended due to construction. Modern updates were added in 1965, such as central air and heat along with an addition for a pastor’s study, finance room and additional restrooms. An elevator was added in 1986, and later a major roof project was completed. In June of 2016, the trustees contracted with All Trades Historical Restoration Company for the West Wall Project to restore the entire exterior, which included the roof, stain-glass windows and masonry work.