Bethel AME was one of three black churches built in Parkersburg and was the oldest black church building in central WV. The church was demolished over a decade ago when the congregation moved into new building with same name on Laird Ave.
Built in 1887, this two-story, stucco, Gothic Revival style building served the local African-American Methodist community.
One of three black churches in Parkersburg and the oldest in central West Virginia, this building served the congregation for a number of decades. So far it is unknown when it was abandoned and the reason for abandonment. The Bethel AME congregation now meets at a newer building on Laird Ave. The original church building was added to the NRHP in 1982 and demolished a number of years afterwards.
***Very little is preserved about the church and more information is sorely needed. Along with information, any photos of the church are needed as well.