African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church originated from the John Street Methodist Church, a white church in New York City. In 1796, African American members began holding separate meetings, although the church continued to remain affiliated with the Methodist Church. On April 6, 1801, African American members chartered the "African Methodist Episcopal Church". They held an organizational meeting in 1821 to form a separate denomination. Pastor James Varick was elected first bishop in 1822, and they broke all ties with the white Methodist Church in 1824. "Zion" was added to the name in 1848.
From the description of African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church Woman's Home and Foreign Missionary Society certificate, 1934. (Louisiana State University). WorldCat record id: 244300834
