On Feb. 24,2025, a new historical plaque now stands along Springfield’s African American Heritage Trail, recognizing the heritage of two prominent Black churches in the community. The dedication ceremony took place in the Historic Washington Avenue Baptist Church, and the marker was unveiled on the south side of Central Avenue, between the former buildings of Benton Avenue AME and Washington Avenue Baptist, also known as Church Square North. 

The newly installed cast-aluminum plaque honors these two churches and their significant contributions to Springfield’s Black community over a century. Benton Avenue AME Church, led by the late Rev. Oliver L. Brown, played a key role in the Brown v. Board of Education case. The churches functioned as centers for social activism, education, and faith. 

As reported by KSMU’s Michele Skalicky, Dr. Lyle Foster, a Missouri State University professor and community leader, began the service by thanking Church Square North’s congregation and pioneers. “We give our eternal gratitude to the pioneers and members of these historic churches, whose history we honor and celebrate today as legacy houses of faith in our city,” he said. 

Drury alumna Charlotte Hardin, a key organizer of the Springfield-Greene County African American Heritage Trail, emphasized the personal significance of Benton Avenue AME.

“It was a special place in the Black community, not just for worship, but also as a think tank and training ground for the future,” she explained. 

Dr. Michael Verney, Drury’s Associate Professor of History, stressed the significance of the occasion. “The heart and soul of the museum we are developing lies in the congregation, whose faith and community spirit gave Benton Avenue its significance.” 

Drury University President Dr. Jeff Frederick and Pastor Terrence Tate of Washington Avenue Baptist Church were among the noticeable speakers. Lily Henry, a second-year Drury architecture student, gave a heartfelt musical performance of “Deep River” at the event. 

Community members, including former congregants, leaders, and preservationists, gathered for the unveiling, cheering as a black velvet fabric was lifted from the memorial. The event marked the ninth installation on the African American Heritage Trail, following earlier markers that commemorated important sites such as Lincoln Memorial Cemetery, Silver Springs Park, and the 1906 Easter Lynching site at Park Central Square. 

“The congregants of Church Square North believed in something greater than themselves—their faith, their freedom, and their hope for equality. Their legacy paved the way for progress in employment, education, and civil rights,” stated President Frederick, reflecting on the influence of the churches. 

As renovations continue, the Benton Avenue AME Church will be converted into an educational facility. Dr. Verney invites anyone with historical documents, pictures, or stories to contribute to the project. He can be reached at mverney@drury.edu by anyone who may be interested. 

This new memorial not only honors the past, but it also ensures that the stories of these historic churches continue to inspire future generations. 

Photo by Leila Ehrichs