Location: West of 9th St North, and between Arlington and 5th Ave North
The historic neighborhood was named after the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, which was founded in 1894.
This was one of two African-American neighborhoods that settled on the city’s “NorthSide.” This was a peculiar occurrence because Blacks, by custom and ordinance, were restricted from this side of town
Mr. Chester James Sr. was deemed the “unofficial mayor” of Methodist Town. James lobbied the city to pave streets and ignite the street lights. As an activist he also campaigned to register 1,000 voters. His efforts were recognized and awarded from both the NAACP and President Lyndon Johnson in the 1960’s.
Residents of Methodist Town
Photos sourced by the Neighborhood News Bureau/USFSP and the St. Petersburg History Museum.
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Neighborhoods
- Sep 23, 2020 Jordan Park
- Sep 23, 2020 22nd Street (The Deuces)
- Aug 28, 2020 Gas Plant (Coopers Quarters)
- Aug 28, 2020 Methodist Town
- Aug 28, 2020 Pepper Town