Rochester’s Roots: Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — News10NBC celebrates Black History Month by honoring the people and places that have paved the way for many in the Rochester area.

Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church, located on Clarissa Street in Corn Hill, is the oldest African-American church in Monroe County.

It first opened its doors nearly 200 years ago in 1827. Over that time, it has served as a shelter for escaped slaves being led to freedom by Harriet Tubman.

It was also the home church of abolitionist Frederick Douglass, who wrote his North Star paper in the church’s basement. That deep history continues to be written today.

News10NBC salutes Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church as part of Rochester’s Roots. Learn more about Rochester’s Roots here.