African Meeting House

The African Meeting House is a meetinghouse located in Beacon Hill that served as a religious and civic center. Its red brick exterior, tall windows, and wooden interior reflect the design style of the early 1800s and shape how visitors experience the space.

This structure was built in 1806 as the first meetinghouse constructed by and for a Black community in the nation. Its founding marked a pivotal moment of independence and self-determination for African Americans during the nation's early years.

The building served as a gathering place where the community came together for worship, learning, and civic participation. Friendships and networks formed within these walls as people shared their faith and voices.

The site sits in Beacon Hill and is easily reached by walking from downtown Boston. Visitors should plan time to explore both the exterior architectural details and the interior spaces.

The interior holds original pews from its founding era, a rare example of preserved furnishings from that time. These benches allow visitors to imagine how people sat together in this space over two centuries ago.

Location: Boston

Architects: Asher Benjamin

Official opening: December 6, 1806

Architectural style: Federal architecture

Part of: Boston African American National Historic Site

Address: 8 Smith Court

GPS coordinates: 42.35998,-71.06548

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:53