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Also naming the 1500 block of Lombard Avenue as Wesley Way, to commemorate the historic Wesley A.M.E. Zion Church and/or one of the most influential Pastors in the church's history- Rev. Alfred G. Dunston.
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WHEREAS, Some researchers have identified Wesley as one of the first five independent African American Churches to be established in the city of Philadelphia; and
WHEREAS, Wesley A.M.E Zion Church, also known as "Big Wesley", was created on June 6, 1820; and
WHEREAS, The original meetings were first held in a Carpenter's shop on Lombard Street between Fifth and Sixth Streets and grew to have the second largest membership of all black churches in the city at that time. It was the original location that many abolitionist rallies, anti-slavery protests, race improvement conventions, lectures, worship, and other significant activities occurred; and
WHEREAS, Wesley A.M.E Zion Church continues to occupy and maintain our historic house of worship at 1500 Lombard Street amidst rapid development and gentrification in the community; and
WHEREAS, In 1885 the Church relocated to the 1500 block of Lombard Street and the members diligently worked toward the founding of the first hospital in the city for black Philadelphians, formed literary societies, supported civil rights, pushed voter registration, promoted equal employment opportunities and more; and
WHEREAS, The new church was designed by architect George Savage, the church was built in 1926 in the Gothic Revival style with a corner bell tower, spire, and pointed arch windows with tracery; and
WHEREAS, Wesley A.M.E Zion Church continues to do ministry at this location representing over 200 years of continuous ministry and service in the City; and
WHEREAS, During the 20th Century, one of the Pastors of Wesley, the Right Rev. Alfred G. Dunston served the church from 1952 until 1963. Rev. Dunston not only served his congregation, but also the city in the struggle for liberation, civil rights a...
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