Snyder Memorial Methodist Church: A Downtown Jacksonville Historic Landmark
By Emma Burleson, DVI’s Fall 2024 Marketing Intern in collaboration with Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park
During October’s First Wednesday Art Walk, the Snyder Memorial Methodist Church will be activated and open to the public, thanks to a collaboration with the City of Jacksonville, Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park, and Downtown Vision, Inc., made possible through the Munz Family Holdings.
Program Schedule:
5 p.m.: Remarks by Mayor Deegan
5:30-6:30 p.m.: The Jacksonville Arts and Music (JAMS) Band
7-8:30 p.m.: John Lumpkin Institute
Background
The Snyder Memorial Methodist Church is a truly inspiring piece of history, dedicated to social justice and committed to helping the Jacksonville community since 1873. The church served as a safe haven for people to take cover from violence and division, such as on the fateful day of Axe Handle Sunday.
Founded in 1870, Snyder Memorial Methodist Church is located at 226 N. Laura St. in downtown Jacksonville. It was saved from the Great Fire of 1901 and was later reconstructed in 1903. The only items saved from the fire were a Bible, four hymnals, a chair, the pulpit, and the cabinet organ.
“Downtown is where you’ll find some of the finest examples of ecclesiastical architecture in the state of Florida, including Snyder Memorial,” says historian and author Wayne Wood, a founding member of Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park. “Snyder is a fine tribute to the craftsmen who came to rebuild Jacksonville after the Great Fire in 1901.” Wood will be happy to see the building activated after a 24-year hiatus. “The more people who see how beautiful it is, the more hope there is it will be salvaged.”
History
In 1873, this Methodist church became one of the first two colleges for students of color.
The church was committed to helping people in poverty and those facing homelessness.
In the 1970s, Snyder offered classes to pregnant teenagers seeking an education.
The church provided office space for Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit that helps build homes for people in poverty.
Snyder was known for welcoming people of all races, genders, and identities. The last three pastors of the church were women. “The church has always been open to everybody,” said the Rev. Linda Standifer, the church’s final pastor.
Join us in celebrating the reopening of this historic landmark at October 2 First Wednesday Art Walk and look forward to its bright future in Downtown Jacksonville!
