WHEREAS, The Monumental Baptist Church was established on March 24th, 1826, and is the second oldest African American Baptist church in the commonwealth of Pennsylvania; and
WHEREAS, The congregation built a church at 41st and Ludlow Streets, where it remained until 1967, and relocated to 50th and Locust Streets, its present location; and
WHEREAS, The Monumental Baptist Church was a site on the Underground Railroad and several of the pastors were actively involved in the abolitionist movement; and
WHEREAS, From 1933 to 1941, Monumental Baptist Church was pastored by Reverend Joseph H. Jackson, who became the president of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.; and
WHEREAS, Under Reverend Mapson, the church has stood as a pillar for the community for the last 200 years
through consistent services, including weekly food giveaways and the provision of vital resources to those in need; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That the 200 Block of South 50th Street also be named “Monumental Way” in honor of their legacy, service, and enduring impact the Walnut Hill community.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to the Monumental Baptist Church as a token of our appreciation and acknowledgement of their lasting impact on the Walnut Hill Community.
End