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Brown Chapel AME Church: A Cradle of Civil Rights

Visit the historic Brown Chapel AME Church in Selma, Alabama, a pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement and the fight for voting rights.

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Brown Chapel AME Church in Selma, Alabama, stands as a pivotal landmark in the American Civil Rights Movement. It served as the starting point for the Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965 and a meeting place for civil rights leaders, playing a crucial role in the passage of the Voting Rights Act.

A brief summary to Brown Chapel AME Church

Local tips

  • Check the church's website or call ahead for information on visiting hours and services.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the church's history and significance.
  • Visit the nearby Edmund Pettus Bridge and the National Voting Rights Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the events that took place in Selma.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Edmund Pettus Bridge, head east on Broad Street towards downtown. Turn left onto Alabama Avenue, then turn right onto Martin Luther King Street. The church will be on your left, approximately a 6-minute walk. There is no fee for visiting the church, but donations are appreciated.

  • Public Transport

    The closest bus stop to Brown Chapel AME Church is at the intersection of Broad Street and Alabama Avenue, a short walk to the church. From the bus stop, turn onto Alabama Avenue, then turn right onto Martin Luther King Street. The church will be on your left. Bus fares in Selma are typically around $1.25 for a single ride.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown Selma, a taxi or ride-share to Brown Chapel AME Church will typically cost between $5 and $10, depending on traffic and demand. The ride is short, usually no more than 5-10 minutes. Ask your driver to take you to 410 Martin Luther King Street.

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Discover more about Brown Chapel AME Church

Brown Chapel AME Church, located in Selma, Alabama, is more than just a church; it's a symbol of the struggle for voting rights and equality in America. Established in 1866, the church has been a cornerstone of the African American community in Selma for over a century. The current building, constructed in 1908, is a Romanesque Revival-style structure with imposing twin towers, designed by A.J. Farley, a Black builder. During the tumultuous years of the Civil Rights Movement, Brown Chapel served as the Selma headquarters for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). In 1965, it became the organizational hub for marches protesting voter disenfranchisement. On March 7, 1965, now known as "Bloody Sunday," peaceful marchers began their trek to Montgomery from the steps of Brown Chapel, only to be met with brutal violence at the Edmund Pettus Bridge by state and local law enforcement. The images of this day galvanized the nation and fueled support for the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Today, Brown Chapel AME Church is a National Historic Landmark, recognized for its significant contribution to the fight for equality and justice. While the church has faced challenges, including structural damage, restoration efforts are underway to preserve this vital piece of American history. Visitors can still witness the sanctuary where mass meetings were held and where leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and John Lewis rallied supporters. Brown Chapel continues to be an active church and a beacon of hope, reminding us of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of civil rights.

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