Historic Black Church Granted $400K for Restoration

0:00A historic church in New Haven, Connecticut just landed a $400,000 grant to restore its antique stained glass windows and custom. Architectural ones. We're talking about the Dickswell Avenue Congregational United Church of Christ, founded in 1820 and known as the oldest formally recognized African-American Congregational Church in the world. This spot played a key role as a stop on the Underground Railroad, push for civil rights and anchor community work in urban development. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Connecticut Freedom Trail, and other landmark lists, making it a true pillar in the neighborhood. Church leaders formed the team, got guidance from the State Historic Preservation Office, and beat out over 800 applicants nationwide. They were the only one in Connecticut picked for this competitive award from the National Trust for Historic Preservations Preserving Black Churches. The grant falls under capital projects, part of an $8.5 million round given to 33 Black

1:03churches this year. Overall, the funds poured in millions more, including $5 million on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, to protect these sites of black faith, culture, and resilience. With its mid-century modern design by architect John Johansson built in 1969, this church keeps evolving while honoring its roots from. Downtown New Haven to its current Dickswell spot, ensuring its legacy shines for generations ahead. That's your Hartford News today update, AI-powered, and always on.