BEAULAH AME CHURCH

OUR HISTORY

 

The African Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in the year of 1848. African Americans were still in slavery and bondage, but a few Free Slaves had a vision of a church of their own in which they could serve with Spiritual dignity. So, in 1848, at the home of Jacob Hawkins, the dream of Beulah A.M.E. Church in Daviess County was about to become a reality. It was here that six people who had met on several occasions came together to form the church. Present on this occasion in the year of 1848 was the Reverend Willis Rivils D.D. of Indianapolis who had met with this group before while traveling from Indianapolis on various occasions to advise and encourage the six who were determined to organize their church. It was now a reality. Dr. Willis had everyone join hands as they prayed a prayer of thanksgiving. Each of those present felt a certain surge of joy as they sang praises and prayers were offered for this magnificent. 

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For a period of time, services were held at the Hawkins' residence. The Rev. Thomas Strouthers was appointed as their first pastor who was undoubtedly sent from Indianapolis by Rev. Willis Rivils to encourage and continue to build Beulah both physically and spiritually. Those six members were organized the church were: Jacob Hawkins, who brought a lot and gave it to the members; Charner and Charles Hawkins, Jesse Perkins, Eli Hawkins, and Manny Bllow. The first church was a frame building built in 1853, one mile west of Washington. This building was afterward converted into a schoolhouse and a new church was erected beside that one in 1867. Two years later, both buildings were destroyed by fire. The next building to be erected was a brick edifice put up in the city of Washington in 1883 at a cost of $1,100. The membership was seventy. It was located at the present location, 805 West Walnut Street. The pastor was Rev. Zack Roberts.