| In the spring of 1882, the cornerstone of a new church was laid at the corner of Ninth and Neches Streets. The Wesley Chapel Church was referred to during that time as "Wesley on the Hill", which by 19th century standards was an impressive edifice.
In 1929, the church purchased a plot of ground facing Hackberry, Navasota, and San Bernard Streets, which is the location of the current sanctuary.
Wesley has developed a
number of ministries in response to the spiritual needs
of its members. Wesley's interest in community and education
dates back to its beginning when for several years,
Samuel Huston College (now Huston-Tillotson University)
held most of its classes in the Church.
Wesley continues to hold
an important place in the civic life of the Austin Community,
being instrumental in the establishment of the Austin
Area Urban League and in numerous ventures with the
Austin Independent School District to assist African
American students. Evident to its rich history, in 1985
the National Register of Historic Places recognized
Wesley as a National Site. Wesley will continue to be
a beacon of hope in the community, and is committed
to nurturing the spiritual growth of the congregation
as we enter the 21st century. |