Amazing! A Historic Letter Uncovered In New Jersey From 1800s

A Piece of History Uncovered In Southern New Jersey

If you have been reading my page for a while now, you probably aren't surprised that this story caught my eye. I enjoy history, especially U.S. History, and this story is even better because it involves New Jersey history.

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So, let's set the stage, pun intended, for this historical story. East Lynne Theater Company is taking over the former Allen African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church of Cape May and converting it into its new home. According to a recent Patch article, a worker who is part of the renovations (Kyle Carter of DKC Contractors) uncovered the letter while working, and it looks to date back to 1891.

The handwritten (cursive) note or receipt was dated June 19th, 1891 and was written by the esteemed Rev. Dr. Alexander Herritage Newton. According to Patch, "Reverend Newton served as pastor at the church from about 1889 to 1892. He was a sergeant in the 29th Connecticut Volunteers, a regiment in the U.S. Colored Troops; a supporter of the Underground Railroad; and a prominent and revered religious leader known for his advocacy for social justice and education."

The note is being considered a fantastic historical find here in the Garden State and the theatre company is considering it a sign that they have picked a great place to continue its work and to save this historical church from possible demise.

According to Patch, "The Clemans Theater at Allen AME Church is located at 717 Franklin St. in Cape May. For more information on East Lynne Theater Co.’s Capital Campaign, go to EastLynneTheater.org."