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Mt. Zion Baptist Church History
From the “Entrance Souvenir Journal 1866-1988, published by the Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, October 2, 1988.
The Mt. Zion Baptist Church was organized in 1866 by Missionary A.R. Griggs. It was one of the first churches represented in the Northwestern District Association. The church joined the association in 1886, represented by the late Deacon C.W. Sanders.
The original name was the Union Church and School located on the site of the Prairie View Cemetery. Rev. Felix Jones was the first pastor and William McDonald was the first teacher of the school.
In 1882, (the site vacated today, at 704 Main St., October 2, 1988) was purchased for $30.00 by trustees Charlie Epps, C.C. Hill, and George Hill. The congregation worshipped in a house that was on the property when purchased. Service was held in the house until 1917, when Rev. P.W. Wesley came and built a new edifice.
Following the pastorate of Rev. Jones, Mt. Zion was blessed to have the following ministers as pastors: Rev. Chatman, Rev. Upshaw, Rev. J.R. Swaney, Rev. Taylor, Rev. Collins, Rev. Morris, Rev. P.W. Wesley, Rev. Mackey, Rev. V.H. Vonner (who served 22 years), Rev. A.W. Walsh, Rev. J.E. Dennis, Rev. John L. Lyons, Rev. J.H. Slaughter and Rev. W.H. Saunders.
In 1942, during the pastorate of Rev. Slaughter, the church was destroyed by fire. The congregation worshipped in the Booker T. Washington High School until it was rebuilt in 1945 by Rev. Saunders.
After Rev. Saunders 9 year pastorate came Rev. M.M. McGaughey, Rev. W.L. Grant, Rev. L.T. Thompson, Rev. S.H. Jemerson, Rev. W.L. Dunbar and Rev. M.R. Lester.
On the third Sunday in June 1978, Rev. H.T. Hardeman, Jr. began his pastorate. Pastor Hardeman came with an enthusiastic and positive attitude. He had a vision. He kept the faith. He encouraged members to tithe. Pledges were made and fundraisers were put into action. He led by example.
Under the direction and leadership of Pastor Hardeman, the congregation moved to its new location, 500 Mesquite St., Sunday, October 2, 1988, into a new edifice.
With deep humility and sincere faith in God, this congregation looks ahead to many years of fruitful service and spiritual growth.
From the “Entrance Souvenir Journal 1866-1988, published by the Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, October 2, 1988.
Note: Thanks to Tony Jackson for providing this information.
