This summer has been remarkably successful highlighted by the well-received Juneteenth events, for which we express our sincere gratitude for your support. Additionally, our production of the play ‘Sleep Deprivation Chamber ‘based on a true story of an arrest in Arlington, written by Adrienne Kennedy and Adam Kennedy, and directed by Craig Wallace received significant acclaim. We look forward to replicating such endeavors in the future.
As we conclude summer, we cordially invite you to join a collaborative celebration with the Arlington county Historical society and Alexandria Women Voters, commemorating 60 years since the landmark 1965 Voting Rights Bill. This pivotal legislation underscores the importance of disseminating vital information to the community, ensuring eligible citizens exercise their voting rights. The inaugural event of this series took place on August 6 at the main library, attracting over 200 attendees. The next event is scheduled for September 16.
We hope to see you again and thanks to all our wonderful supporters for helping us continue to host free events for the public .We look forward to such endeavors in the future
Regards,
Dr. Scott Edwin Taylor
Spotlight On Historic Mt.Salvation Baptist Church
Mt. Salvation Baptist Church has a rich history dating back to 1872. Reverend Cyrus, originally from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, founded several Baptist churches in Northern Virginia’s African-American communities between 1866 and 1873, including Mount Salvation in Arlington.
The congregation initially met at the residence of Brother Moses and Hattie Pelham in ‘Pelham Town,’ a colloquial name for the acreage near Hall’s Hill owned by the Pelham family. In 1884, the church purchased a one-acre site from Bazil and Francis Hall for $80. The original church trustees included Moses Pelham Sr., Washington Jones, Bonaparte Moten, Harrison King, and Horace Shelton. Land for the cemetery was acquired in 1888, and the first permanent church was constructed in 1892. Reverend Cyrus Carter of Lincolnville, VA, served as Mount Salvation’s first officiating pastor. Under Reverend Chinnor Coleman’s pastorate (1905-1917), the building was enlarged, and a baptismal pool was installed.
Reverend N.R. Richardson led the church from 1931-1966 and oversaw significant renovations, including a façade renovation and the addition of a basement.
Center, a property they owned where meetings, religious services, and summer camps were held.
Mount Salvation played an essential role during the civil rights movement by organizing events in conjunction with Calloway Baptist Church, the Arlington branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), and HHHVP residents . Rev. Brown had moved from Cherrydale to 2011 N. Culpeper and became president of the local chapter of the NAACP during this time. Rev. Brown opened his home for a local NAACP meeting that included Attorney Thurgood Marshall and Attorney Robinson where the decision was made to shift from focusing on “equalizing” African American schools and starting suit to desegregate and end Jim Crow laws.
The original 1892 church building was demolished in 1975 to make way for a new structure designed by architect Charles J. Bryant.
Today, Mount Salvation Baptist Church remains a strong and unique institution, preserving its traditions and celebrating long-time members. Many are 50 years plus members.
Upcoming Events
Halls Hill History Walk
Learn about Halls Hill, a historically African American neighborhood in Arlington, through this walk narrated by longtime residents.
Saturday, September 13 · 10am – 1pm EDT.Doors at 9:45am
For more info:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/halls-hill-history-walk-tickets-1601656029299
Join us for the National Voters Registration Day: Join the League of Women Voters of Arlington and Alexandria city for a panel discussion concerning Virginia voting Rights 1965 to today
September 16, 2025 at Shirlington library at 6 PM
4200 Campbell Ave
Arlington VA., 22206
October 11, 2025 learn about local community activist Portia A. Haskins with Dr. Scott Edwin Taylor, PhD at the Black Heritage museum 2:-3 PM.
