A historic Black church in Parkville is nearing the completion of a major restoration project that saved it from potential closure.
Historic Parkville church nears completion of restoration project, avoiding closure
Washington Chapel CME Church, built in 1907, sits prominently on a hill with its original stone construction intact. The church holds the distinction of being the oldest and only Black church in Parkville.
“We believe from history they started about 1902, stones from right here in this area, and built by the freed slaves and students from Park College at that time, it wasn’t university at all,” said Alcorama Pearl Spencer, who has been a member all her life.
Spencer and her sister Cora Thompson have been members of the church for more than 80 years, following in the footsteps of their parents and grandparents.
“I gave my first speeches at this church when I was two years old,” Thompson said…