In 1849, the construction of the Oro African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church began, marking a pivotal moment for Black settlers in Ontario. Located in Oro Township, the church was built by a community of freed and runaway slaves, many of whom had fled the United States in search of freedom and opportunity in Canada. The establishment of the church was not just about religious worship; it was a symbol of the resilience, unity, and faith of the Black community. The church would serve as a vital space for spiritual growth, cultural preservation, and the strengthening of community bonds.

The construction of the Oro AME Church reflected the broader movement of Black settlement in Canada, particularly in the wake of the abolition of slavery in Upper Canada. For the African-American families in the area, the church provided a safe haven, a place of worship, and a center for organizing their social, educational, and cultural activities. The church’s establishment laid the groundwork for future generations to continue building a strong, thriving community. As the first African Methodist Episcopal church in the region, it holds a rich legacy of faith, perseverance, and the struggle for equality that remains significant to this day.