The History of the Negro Church

About this book

The work is a scholarly survey of the African‑American church from its earliest colonial roots to the early twentieth‑century, written by Carter G. Woodson and published in Washington, D.C., in September 1921. In its opening pages Woodson explains that previous denominational histories have treated the Negro church as a collection of separate efforts, and he sets out to present a unified narrative that traces the institution’s evolution. He acknowledges the difficulty of gathering complete records, some denominations kept no archives, and contemporary witnesses were sometimes indifferent, but notes the assistance of several ministers and scholars, such as Charles H. Wesley and J. A. Booker. The table of contents outlines a chronological progression through missionary activity, the rise of independent congregations, the impact of the Civil War, and the church’s social and political dimensions, promising a comprehensive account grounded in the sources he could obtain.

Written in a measured, academic prose typical of early‑20th‑century historical monographs, the book reflects Woodson’s careful, source‑based approach while retaining a clear, explanatory tone. Readers with an interest in African‑American religious history, scholars of American church development, or anyone seeking a detailed, period‑appropriate overview of how Black congregations shaped and were shaped by broader social forces will find it rewarding. Its focus on institutional change, combined with biographical sketches of notable clergy, makes it especially suitable for graduate students, historians, and informed general readers who appreciate a thorough, documentary‑driven study.