After 20 years of hard work, longtime volunteer Gloria Finch, 83, had one more job to do.

With the cut of a ribbon, Little Bethel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) is now serving the community once again. Known as one of Pennsylvania’s oldest black churches, the landmark on North 3rd Street in Stroudsburg is now home to a museum and lending library.

“We are hoping this becomes a community space that is as beloved as it was many years ago,” said Ann Parham, president of Little Bethel Historical Association.

After serving in the Civil War, the church was built in 1868 by members of the United States Colored Troops (USCT), a branch of the Union Army. Some of those members are credited with pursuing President Lincoln’s assassin and leading his funeral procession. Little Bethel AME flourished among its congregation of free yet segregated Native and African Americans.

“This neighborhood itself was, I wouldn't say designated, but it was an area African Americans lived in. It was to their advantage to have a structure they could come worship at, serve at, and do other things that communities normally do,” explained Clavertis Miller, vice president of the Little Bethel Historical Association.

The church eventually fell into disrepair and there were talks of tearing it down. The Stroudsburg Little Bethel Historical Association formed in 2002, and dozens of dedicated volunteers have worked ever since to save the building and its rich history.

“It took a long time. New roof, new floors, new walls, electricity had to be put in,” Ann said.

And bathrooms, a major project that Gloria proudly took the lead on. She recalled, “I know what it was like to have outdoor bathrooms, I’m that old. They said, alright you come in, make sure that the bathroom project takes place, and is a connected bathroom,” she recalled.

Little Bethel AME is open to the public every Tuesday from 12 - 3 p.m. and by special request. The space features a diverse collection of books written by or about African Americans. Visitors can also check out slideshows, old articles, and photos.

“There are so many people who never saw this completed. People who, how should I say, had faith. There are people who recognize what this place is, and it means something to us all. It means something to everyone, and I am so pleased,” Gloria said.

A new chapter in preserving history and sharing stories of the past.