Overview
Founded during Florida's transition to American territory in 1821, Trinity United Methodist Church has deep historical roots in St. Augustine. Originally an integrated congregation of Black and White residents, its early history reflects the complex dynamics of faith, race, and community.
The church's site was once part of land owned by Philip Edinboro, a free Black resident, cattleman, and interpreter who played a vital role in trade with Indigenous Seminole tribes during the Second Spanish Period. In the post-Civil War era, Trinity flourished within the Lincolnville neighborhood, a hub for St. Augustine's freed Black community.
Completed in 1913, the current church building at 84 Bridge Street stands as a testament to resilience and faith. It also holds a prominent place in Civil Rights history, serving as a sanctuary and rallying point for demonstrators during the St. Augustine Movement. Today, Trinity United Methodist Church remains a symbol of faith, perseverance, and the ongoing pursuit of justice.