CAMPBELL CHAPEL A.M.E. CHURCH’S HISTORIC CHAPEL CELEBRATES 150 YEARS OF ENDURING LEGACY AND CULTURAL HERITAGE
Bluffton, South Carolina — This July marks a historic milestone for Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church’s Historic Chapel as the congregation proudly celebrates its 150th anniversary. While the congregation was formed in 1874 by nine previously enslaved individuals, the Historic Chapel was built in 1853 and stands as one of the oldest church structures in the African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church denomination. The congregation and the historic chapel embody a rich legacy of resilience, faith, and cultural significance.
“I am so grateful for this opportunity to share our story. For 150 years, this congregation has served as the nexus for cultural exchange and community unity,” said Rev. Dr. Jon R. Black, Pastor of Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church. The Historic Chapel has been a beacon of hope and faith for the Bluffton community and beyond for a century and a half. Its founding members, seeking a place to worship freely, established this landmark with a commitment to faith, community, and cultural preservation. Over the years, the chapel has become an enduring symbol of African American history and progress.
The Historic Chapel, recognized as a historical landmark by the federal government, holds a unique place in the tapestry of African American history. Its architectural beauty and cultural significance make it a destination for those seeking to connect with the roots of the community and the broader American story.
To commemorate this momentous occasion, Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church has planned a series of events throughout the year, culminating in a grand celebration in July. The 150th Anniversary festivities will include historical tours, cultural exhibitions, community gatherings, and special services that honor the Historic Chapel’s founders and their enduring legacy.
Engaging the Community:
Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church invites the Bluffton community and beyond to join in the celebration of 150 years of history, faith, and cultural resilience. Through a united effort, the anniversary celebration aims to foster a sense of unity, pride, and appreciation for the remarkable journey that the Historic Chapel represents.
Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church has planned the following events to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Historic Chapel:
- June 30, 2024, at 3 p.m.: Campbell Chapel’s 150th Church Anniversary Worship Service
- July 1–5, 2024: Family and Friends Week
- July 6, 2024: Campbell Chapel Church Anniversary Gala
- July 7, 2024, at 10 a.m.: Campbell Chapel’s 150th Church Anniversary Worship Service