BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — A local Facebook group showcasing abandoned buildings throughout Western New York has issued an apology after taking photos inside a historic Buffalo church that isn't abandoned.
Abandoned and Beyond Buffalo released photos from inside the Durham Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church on Wednesday. Reverend Michael Bell told 7 News' Pheben Kassahun on Thursday that at least one person was seen leaving the church at a time when it was locked. The Facebook group issued an apology just 24 hours later.
Dear Members of the Congregation and Staff at Durham Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church,
We at ABBNY wish to extend our sincerest apologies for the recent incident involving our group member at your church. We were not aware that the church was in the process of repair and reuse, and thus mistakenly assumed it was abandoned. It was a regrettable oversight on our part.
We understand the concern and discomfort our actions may have caused, and we deeply regret any intrusion into your space. The beauty and historical significance of your church were not lost on us, and we are truly sorry for any disruption we caused.
Please accept our heartfelt apologies, and know that we are committed to making amends. If there is anything we can do to assist you regarding the building or otherwise, please do not hesitate to let us know.
We have taken immediate action to rectify and the post has been removed.
Durham Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church
Attention Anyone looking to contribute to the renovation efforts:
The congregation does have website but it is currently under construction. If those who would like to donate have a cashapp, they can accept donations there $DMZC. In the subject line please list it as Donation. You can also send funds via cash or check to their community center 200
E. Eagle St. Buffalo, NY 14204.
- Abandoned and beyond Buffalo, NY
"It is a criminal activity. So, I was very pleased that they responded. They took ownership," said Rev. Bell. "In addition to that, they even reached out and wanted to help support our drive. That was admirable."
Additionally, the original post has been deleted, upon Durham Memorial's request.
"They [Durham Memorial] were supposed to begin in March, but I suppose God had something else in mind that we would start it sooner," said Rev. Bell. "I'm just amazed at the wonderful people that we do have in Buffalo and in the greater Buffalo region that have tied themselves to the very mission and vision of this church."
Kassahun also received a personal response to a message sent on Thursday. The Facebook account owner emphasized the "intent was solely to document, not to cause harm or intrusion."
Dear Pheben,
We are a local group of passionate history enthusiasts committed to preserving our community's invaluable architectural heritage. Recently, I've personally documented landmarks on the brink of disrepair, some of which lack any existing photographic record.
I have taken proactive steps to address a recent incident involving Durham Memorial AME Church. Following the discovery of an open door, I promptly reached out to the congregation and pastor to extend a sincere apology. Currently, we are exploring opportunities for collaboration, including fundraising initiatives and grounds maintenance efforts.
I want to emphasize our group's steadfast commitment to preservation and respect for property. We adamantly oppose vandalism and adhere to a principle of "take only photographs, leave only footprints." Our intent was solely to document, not to cause harm or intrusion.
Thank you for reaching out, and I appreciate the opportunity to provide clarification.
Sincerely,
ABBNY
When asked to speak on camera, the owner declined, stating their anonymity was important due to legality reasons.
Unfortunately-I must remain anonymous for legal reasons as my passion for exploring and photography in these abandoned properties, although motivated by art and history, falls into a legal gray area. I genuinely care about preserving history and hope the church can recover and raise the funds they need. If you have some additional questions, I can answer them for you.
It's a step in the right direction for this church community, with a possible collaboration in the future to appreciate Buffalo history.
"I just want to thank the cooperation of the police department. I want to thank the wonderful support of Channel 7. At the end of the day, I believe that people, when they have the right mind, can do amazing things whether it's in Buffalo or any other place," said Rev. Bell.
