Peoples United Methodist ChurchColorado SpringsRooted in Faith. Built by Community. Still Serving.
Our story began with a faithful group of African Americans, many of them formerly enslaved people or the children of formerly enslaved people, who gathered to build a church home for worship, service, and community life.
In 1904, the congregation built People’s Methodist Episcopal Church at 527 East St. Vrain Street. That historic church became more than a place of Sunday worship. It became a spiritual home, a meeting place, and a center of strength for Colorado Springs’ African-American community.
The original St. Vrain church building is recognized for its local historic significance. Its Queen Anne design, Gothic Revival features, corner steeple, steep gables, and arched windows made it a distinctive place of worship in early Colorado Springs.
The building was constructed in a neighborhood that became one of the city’s important African-American communities. For decades, Peoples served as a place where faith, family, leadership, and public life came together.
Peoples has always carried more than one responsibility. The church has been a place for worship, prayer, teaching, civic life, and community connection.
Beginning in 1921, the historic St. Vrain church also served as headquarters for the Colorado Springs Division Number 508 of the Universal Negro Improvement Association. During this period, the church was connected to a wider movement of Black pride, self-determination, education, and community advancement.
Marcus Garvey visited Colorado Springs in 1922 and again in 1924. Amy Jacques Garvey also spoke at People’s Methodist Episcopal Church in 1924, adding another powerful chapter to the church’s place in local and national Black history.
In 1965, the Peoples congregation moved from the St. Vrain church building to continue its ministry in a new location. Today, Peoples United Methodist Church worships and serves at 5110 Tamlin Road in Colorado Springs.
Our address has changed, but our calling remains: to grow in faith, serve in love, and share Christ with our community.
Today, PUMC continues to welcome worshipers, families, neighbors, youth, longtime members, and new friends. We honor the courage and faith of those who came before us by continuing the work of worship, care, service, and connection.
Our story is still being written.
This page summarizes information from the National Register of Historic Places registration form for People’s Methodist Episcopal Church / People’s Methodist Church, along with PUMC’s current public information.