Our Story
Historic Tanner Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Arizona's oldest African American Church, was founded during the pioneer days. It started when Charles Ward, N. D. Valentine, Laura Valentine, and Sister Bell collaborated with Reverend H. H. Hawkins to establish a Christian mission aimed at nurturing family life. By 1886, this group owned property, as courthouse records indicate. The mission expanded, acquiring additional property on Second Street and East Jefferson Street in 1899, and was officially named Tanner Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in honor of Bishop Benjamin T. Tanner. Subsequently, the Sarah E. Tanner Women’s Missionary Society was established in memory of Bishop Tanner’s wife.
The church later moved to its current location at Eighth Street and Jefferson Street. Reverend A. H. Hamilton, pastor from 1926 to 1932, inspired the construction of the new church building, completed in 1929. Tanner Chapel celebrated its centennial in November 1987 under Reverend John L. Shaw.
Originally, Tanner Chapel’s congregation was predominantly African American, although it was not in a designated black neighborhood. Over time, the development of housing patterns concentrated the African American population of Phoenix in South Phoenix, making it the black community hub, with Tanner Chapel at its heart.
In addition to spiritual guidance, Tanner Chapel has provided social services like daycare and housing assistance. In the 1960s, it became a focal point for civil rights activities, with notable figures like Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speaking there in 1964.
On December 15, 2010, Phoenix City Council declared Tanner Chapel a historic landmark. Noted by architect Lloyd LeRaine Pike, the church is an exceptional example of Gothic Revival architecture, a style rare in Phoenix. It is one of only 14 properties in Phoenix with landmark status and the first African American Church to receive such designation.
Under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Benjamin N. Thomas Sr, Tanner Chapel remains committed to promoting Christian living, family values, economic development, responsible citizenship, civic action, and social welfare. It serves as a cultural cornerstone in the Phoenix community, attracting many influential African American figures. Tanner continues to bridge the gap between church and community through its 501(c)(3) organization, Tanner Community Development Corporation, founded by its current pastor.
