Cape May in Cape May County, New Jersey — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Historic Macedonia Baptist Church of Cape May
Photographed by Ms. Lynda Towns, July 1, 2026
1. Historic Macedonia Baptist Church of Cape May Marker
The Historic Macedonia Baptist Church of Cape May has been a beacon of Black culture, spirituality, and activism since December 23, 1895. The church also became an advocate against displacement during the urban renewal campaign of the 1960s, safeguarding Black traditions and community. Its legacy, encapsulated in its vibrant renditions of Negro spirituals and community activism, is a testament to its enduring significance and underscores the paths of spiritual and cultural development. The churchs parsonage, formerly the George Howell House, housed the churchs ministers until the 1980s.
Erected 2026 by New Jersey Historical Commission. (Marker Number 2024.A.17.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Civil Rights • Religion & Religious Structures.
Location. 38° 56.131′ N, 74° 55.274′ W. Marker is in Cape May, New Jersey, in Cape May County. It is on Lafayette Street close to Franklin Street, on the left when traveling south. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 630 Lafayette Street, Cape
this page online
Regionally, this marker is on New Jersey’s Jersey Shore. It is also in the American Northeast, in the Mid-Atlantic, and on the Eastern Seaboard. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Netherland and also one of the original Thirteen Colonies.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: The Franklin Street School (within shouting distance of this marker); Civic & Education Center (within shouting distance of this marker); Stephen Smith's Summer House, 1846 (within shouting distance of this marker); Historically Black Franklin Street School (within shouting distance of this marker); The Stephen Smith House (within shouting distance of this marker); Opra Huff's Bakery, 1950s (within shouting distance of this marker); The Space Shuttle Tree (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Original Fire Hydrant (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in
Photographed by New Jersey Black Heritage Trail
2. Marker Unveiling Ceremony
On June 18, 2026 the New Jersey Historical Commission unveiled a marker honoring Historic Macedonia Baptist Church of Cape May's central role in the evolution of the Cape May African American community, offering a sanctuary for cultural preservation, social activism, and educational endeavors. As it safeguarded African American traditions and spirituals, the church also became a frontline advocate during the urban renewal campaigns of the 1960s, championing the rights and voices of its congregation against displacement.
Historic Macedonia Baptist Church of Cape May.
3. The Church Choirs 40th Annual Concert
Newspaper article, date unknown.
Historic Macedonia Baptist Church of Cape May
4. Rev. Joseph Colvin at the Church
Historic Macedonia Baptist Church of Cape May
5. Historic Macedonia Baptist Church of Cape May
Credits. This page was last revised on August 5, 2026. It was originally submitted on July 29, 2026, by New Jersey Black Heritage Trail of Trenton, New Jersey. This page has been viewed 9 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. submitted on July 29, 2026, by New Jersey Black Heritage Trail of Trenton, New Jersey. • Michael Herrick was the editor who published this page.
