Bishop Richard Allen Park Marker Unveiled

RADNOR, PA —The new Bishop Richard Allen Historical Marker tells the story of one of the most influential Black leaders and founder of the first African Methodist Episcopal Church.

The marker was unveiled Sunday during a ceremony at Bishop Richard Allen Park, a small park on Brook Street in the Bryn Mawr section of Radnor.

Several dozen residents attended the ceremony when the marker, created by Gregory Prichard, Prichard Design & History Studio, Wayne, was unveiled.

The Rev. Carolyn Cavaness, pastor of the Bethel African American Methodist Church Ardmore, was recognized for her community leadership.

State Rep. Lisa Borowski; William White, township manager, Mary Coe, chair of the Parks and Recreation Department; and Commissioners Moira Mulroney, Sean Farhy, and Maggy Myers spoke during the ceremony.

History

In 1784, Allen walked from New Jersey to Radnor and stayed for several weeks at the home of Caesar Waters, and his wife, Phoebe.

Allen wrote in this autobiography about having preached to people of different persuasions when he made his visit to Radnor.

Allen was the first bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Allen stayed when he visited Radnor in 1784 and later wrote about the community in his autobiography.

The park was named after Allen in April 2009 to recognize the founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

The park is located on the property line that separated the first two pieces of land owned by Black individuals, who were formerly enslaved.