Vernon A.M.E.

IN 1908 THE TRUSTEES PURCHASED

the present site, 307 N. Greenwood Avenue, for $290.00, with a down payment of $100.00. By this time, many members were added. The congregation voted to change the name from “Burton Chapel” to “Vernon,” honoring Registrar of the Treasury, W. T. Vernon who was appointed by then President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906 and reappointed by President William Howard Taft in 1910.

In the years leading up to the Massacre, Vernon had purchased additional land, which encompasses all of the present church. By 1914, the old church was torn down and the brick basement for the new church was paid for and constructed. The events of June 1, 1921 left this new brick basement in ruins.

Courtesy of Tulsa Historical Society & Museum

THE HISTORIC VERNON AME CHURCH

played a pivotal role during this time of destruction. The church became an important monument to the community. While homes, schools, and businesses were destroyed, Vernon was still able to open its doors and allow events to carry on as planned. For instance, not long after the massacre, Vernon opened its doors to the Booker T. Washington graduating class of 1921, which allowed these young men and women to have a place for graduation. The church property was also used for various community events; trying to give some normalcy after a tragic event.