Mother African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church

Mother African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church is a house of worship in Harlem designed with Neo-Gothic architecture, featuring stone walls and large stained glass windows. The building displays the craftsmanship typical of early twentieth-century religious structures.

The congregation was founded in 1796 when African American members of John Street Methodist Church established their own religious community. The current building was constructed between 1923 and 1925 as an expression of the congregation's growth and stability.

This house of worship became a spiritual center for Harlem's African American community where members gathered for services and community life. It remains a living center of faith where the congregation continues to worship and organize civic activities.

Regular worship services take place throughout the week and visitors are welcome to observe the sanctuary and its furnishings. The building is visible from the street and marked clearly, making it easy for people to locate when visiting the neighborhood.

George W. Foster Jr., among the first African American architects in the nation, designed the building and left a lasting mark on architectural history. His work here demonstrates the skill and vision that African American architects brought to religious structures during this period.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: 1925

Address: 140–148 West 137th Street

GPS coordinates: 40.81600,-73.94180

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:49