Church Tour Explores Sewickley's African-American History

Judith Hall is excited to share pieces of Sewickley's history, some of which might surprise the average person. 

"People need to see it and understand how much African-American history is in Sewickley,” said Hall, a resident.

Hall lead visitors Saturday during a historical walking tour at St. Matthews African-American Episcopal Church as part of the Center for the Arts 15th annual celebration. The event was held on the same day as the .

St. Matthews is one of the predominantly African-American churches in Sewickley, along with , , and an Evangelical church that is no longer there and was converted into a house a few years ago.

The church was named after Daniel B. Matthews, a former minister of the church who used to preach the word to African American members of the community. Also named after the former minister is the Daniel B. Matthews Society, a local group that was founded by Susan Blockson, a former member of the church.

“History was her love, and sharing knowledge,” Hall said.

Hall lead a tour of an extensive photo collection in the church basement. Priceless moments in time are captured in the gallery, which is divided in sections including a large display of Tuskegee Airmen. Several of the airmen, who were a part of the first group of African-Americans to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces, were from Sewickley.

There is also a section featuring business owners, including caterers, a hauling business and an auto repair shop. An education section includes photos of former teacher Shirley Wormsley, who in addition to being a favorite teacher of countless graduates, was also named Sewickley’s Woman of the Year in 2005.

Hall stressed that there was an importance of family and a pride in the community with Sewickley’s earliest African-American citizens. There was a thriving social scene, which included big name acts gracing the stage at the Walter Robinson Post 450 Legion.

Musician Dizzie Gillespie provided music for the Legion’s first dance, and other big name artists who played there included Count Bassie, Ray Charles and Ella Fitzgerald.

When asked what she wanted people to know about the photo collection, Hall replied, “That it’s here." 

She said that school and other groups come through and are always welcome. Also, the Daniel B. Matthews Historical Society is planning a fundraising banquet, as the group hopes to provide more youth programming and other events in the community.