From Segregation to Solidarity
May 22, 2024 @ 7:00PM — 9:00PM Eastern Time (US & Canada) Add to Calendar
Matheson History Museum: 513 East University Avenue Gainesville, FL 32601 Get Directions
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A Journey of Faith for the Saint Augustine Episcopal Mission Church and School
The Saint Augustine Mission Church and School was established in Gainesville in 1894 for Black Episcopalians and students. The Diocese of Florida, under the leadership of Bishop Weed and Rector Rev. A.T. Sharpe of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, founded St. Augustine with 15 congregants. In 1897, a Black minister, the Rev. John Speight, became rector and headmaster, and served 1897-1919. After Rev. Speight’s passing in 1924, Rev. Melvin Jackson took over as headmaster. The church and school were closed by the Diocese of Florida in 1970 and the congregants became members of Holy Trinity.
On Wednesday, May 22, George Guy, parishioner of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church of Gainesville, will give a presentation on the history of piety and perseverance behind the onetime Episcopal parish and parochial school for Black citizens formerly located at 405 NW 4th Avenue in Gainesville.