Cairo in Alexander County, Illinois — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Ward Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church
Photographed by Jason Voigt, July 30, 2026
1. Ward Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church Marker
Dedicated to the founders and the congregation of Ward Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church. Founded in 1863 in Cairo at the home of Maria Renfro who resided at 16th and Poplar Streets. Ward Chapel throughout the years has served as a flashpoint for resilience, freedom, and dedication to all who value equality, equity, and justice.
Erected 2022.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Religion & Religious Structures. In addition, it is included in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1863.
Location. 37° 0.164′ N, 89° 10.485′ W. Marker is in Cairo, Illinois, in Alexander County. It is on 17th Street south of Washington Avenue (U.S. 51), on the left when traveling east. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 430 17th St, Cairo IL 62914, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in Southern Illinois Little Egypt. It is also in the American Midwest, in the Ohio River Valley, in the Corn Belt, and in the Great River Road Region.
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Ward Chapel AME Church (a few steps from this marker); The Cairo Public Library (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Mary J. Safford (about 400 feet away); President Clinton Visits Cairo, Illinois (about 400 feet away); The Historic First Presbyterian Church (about 500 feet away); The Cairo Custom House (about 700 feet away); Seaman (about 800 feet away); York the Slave (about 800 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Cairo.
Photographed by Jason Voigt, July 30, 2026
2. Ward Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church Marker
Photographed by Jason Voigt, July 30, 2026
3. Ward Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church Marker
Photographed by Jason Voigt, July 30, 2026
4. Ward Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church
The church was a place of worship until 2010. Today, the building sits abandoned and condemned.
Credits. This page was last revised on August 4, 2026. It was originally submitted on August 4, 2026, by Jason Voigt of Glen Carbon, Illinois. This page has been viewed 3 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on August 4, 2026, by Jason Voigt of Glen Carbon, Illinois.
