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(Mid-City National Register District; Original construction 1848-1851; renovation 1903)
St. James A.M.E. Church, located in the Mid-City National Register Historic District, has been a place of worship for 160 years. Rendered unusable by the floodwaters that followed Hurricane Katrina, the sanctuary was closed for almost 3 years and services held in an auxiliary building so that repairs to the floors, altar and pews could be made. Services have since returned to the church itself. St. James is still in the process of rebuilding its programming, which includes ministry to a large contingent of homeless persons in the immediate area; support for the Albert Wicker Elementary School; and church services for the local community.
What is the historical significance of this site?
The property has been a place of worship for 160 years. Constructed in Gothic style in the mid-19th century, the building was remodeled in 1903 by architecture firm Diboll and Owen in Romanesque Revival style. The church is connected to the recruitment of the first African American soldiers for the Union Army in Louisiana, was involved in the initial organization of the Black YMCA and the successful advocacy for the establishment of the Bienville School for Black Children in 1903, now known as the Albert Wicker School.
What is the current use of grant money and/or state of restoration?
The floors, pews, and altar were stabilized enough for the sanctuary to reopen. Regular church services are now held every Sunday.
Despite some obstacles, including finding a qualified craftsman to repair the plaster work, the project was completed and the sanctuary once again offers a place to gather and worship, allowing the site to continue its historic role as an anchor in the community. The repairs have made possible a full revival of the site as active place of worship and community services, and as an essential site of support for the congregation and the neighborhood.
Why this site needs your continued support:
As an educational, cultural and spiritual resource, the sanctuary and its revival are critical to supporting the neighborhood and the African American community. The repairs have made possible a full revival of the site as active place of worship and community services, and as an essential site of support for the congregation and the neighborhood.
St. James A.M.E. Church listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
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