VIRTUAL MADRID FOCUS ON PEDAGOGY

Abstract

African American history and legacy is entwined with the Church community. The Church has been the cornerstone of the black America. The influence of the African American Church is noted in architecture, history, community, economics, education and politics. During the colonial period in the United State the church was a safe haven for black slaves to come together in groups. They were able to worship in secret without fear of their slave owners to have knowledge of their location. These churches built by African slaves was a sign of their faith and represented their freedom from oppression. Many examples in the south are noted by the styles of churches throughout the United States. Most of the architectural styles were designed following the Gothic Revival, Romanesque Revival and Neoclassical orders. They also integrated symbols and forms from West African traditions.The church design merged West African spirituality with western architecture. The church buildings were used by African American slaves as safe spaces from oppression from Jim Crow laws. They were used for those who were planning to escape from the South in the underground railroad to the North for their freedom. These spaces were used for community meetings and to share news to other members. The architectural features for these churches included simple frame, gable roofs, rectangular footprint, central aisles,multipurpose interiors, expanded basements, fellowship halls and office wings for pastors and staff. They were often built by farmers or migrant workers who used materials available to them in the region which they thrived. In teaching students, they must research the history of the church which the founders had a vision which shaped a community. This includes how the church is built and the style of architecture. In the study for the design of the building in the region which it serves. Keeping the authentic vision of the church building as an historic symbol of our history and legacy.