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NAVIGATION
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History of Washington Chapel
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Thomas Anderson and L.M. Leath bought a plot of land from King
Gordon for $25.00. Built with material donated by Booker T.
Washington, the new church was named Washington Chapel in
appreciation. The first ordained minister was Reverend
McClain.
In 1909, Reverend Hatcher was assigned pastor. In his four years
in Tuskegee, six organizations were added: The Steward Board, the
Trustee Board, the Stewardess Board, the Missionary Society, the Sunday
School and the Senior Choir.
Under Reverend Upshaw, the church moved to a new home on Bruce Street,
with a parsonage across the street.
Washington Chapel expanded
under the leadership of Reverend T. R. Newman, who lead the building of
a basement, enlarged the choir stand, equiped the kitchen with a new
gas stove, hot water heater and refrigerator, new pews, pulpit chairs
and a communion table. An organ and exterior brick veneer were
also purchased under Reverend Newman's leadership.
In 1957, 18 acres were purchased on Old Montgomery Road where
Washington Chapel is now located, under the direction of Reverend T. R.
Brown. A new parsonage was built. In 1974, a 60-unit
apartment complex was built on the lower six acres.
Washington Chapel continues to be blessed with dynamic leadership, with
Reverends Rouse, Davis, Billups and Michaels following Reverend
Brown. Reverend Davis has been appointed Bishop, and will serve
God in South Africa. Reverend Billups' father served as pastor in
the mid-1950's and performed 73 baptisms during his tenure. When
God called Reverend Billups home during his service at Washington
Chapel, Mrs. Billups chose to stay with us and serve as Church Secretary and President of
the Missionary Society.
Reverend Farrell J. Duncombe followed Reverend Michaels and Washington Chapel enjoyed four years of progress, including a remodeling of the Sanctuary and beautiful singing from Dijuana Duncombe. The music program was upgraded with a new organ and Warren Duncan was appointed Music Director.
In June of 2007, Pastor Duncombe was called to St. Paul A.M.E. in Montgomery, Al. and we were blessed with Reverend W. Marshall from Mobile, Al. Washington Chapel welcomed Reverend Marshall as we are prepared to move forward to greater challenges in the future.
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Working Together As One Body
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