Reedy Chapel A. M. E. Church
Galveston, Galveston County, Texas
Marker Inscription
This structure, erected during the pastorate of the Rev. J. E. Edwards, replaced the first Reedy Chapel Church on this site, destroyed by the 1885 Galveston fire. Contractor E. F. Campbell began construction in 1886. Four storms hit the island that year, delaying completion of the project until 1887. Severely damaged by the hurricane of 1900, the building was restored to its original Gothic style. The church was repaired and enlarged again in 1947 and 1957. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1975
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
This Galveston sanctuary was built to replace an earlier Reedy Chapel lost to the great fire of 1885. Contractor E. F. Campbell began work in 1886, but four storms that year pushed completion into 1887, and the 1900 hurricane badly damaged the building before it was restored to its original Gothic style. Repaired and enlarged again in the mid-twentieth century, it remains a landmark of the island's African Methodist Episcopal community.
Why it matters
As one of the oldest African American congregations in Texas, Reedy Chapel embodies the enduring faith and self-governance of Black Galvestonians across fire, storm, and generations.
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Related people
- · J. E. Edwards
- · E. F. Campbell
Themes & tags
Nearby & related markers
Reedy Chapel A. M. E. Church
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