Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church
The earliest known Black congregation in Orange, Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church was started in 1871 as a result of the organizatonal efforts begun by Simon Jones, Peter Minor and William Ruben Minor. Joined later by William Edwards, Boyd Scott, Arthur Robinson, and John Williams, they raised funds for the construction of a church building, completed in 1872. The first sanctuary was a small frame structure on the corner of Third and Cherry streets. It was later moved to John Street and enlarged.
The congregation was officially organized at a meeting in October 1873. The dedication ceremony was conducted by the Rev. Archie Vinerable and the Rev. A.J. Shotwell of Beaumont.
Several other sanctuaries served the members before the present church was constructed in 1926. Designed by Dr. C.E. Jeter, it was completed during the pastorate of the Rev. W.J. Clark.
The Mount Zion congregation has been instrumental in the development of the community, sponsoring missionary programs and serving as a nucleus for the formation of several churches. Many prominent area leaders have been members here.
Erected 1981 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 11498.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Churches & Religion.
Location.
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Black Education in Orange County (a few steps from this marker); Salem United Methodist Church (about 600 feet away, measured in a direct line); Cox House (approx. ¼ mile away); St. Mary's Catholic Church (approx. 0.3 miles away); a different marker also named Black Education in Orange County (approx. 0.3 miles away); The Woman's Club of Orange (approx. 0.4 miles away); Hollywood Community Cemetery (approx. 0.4 miles away); Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown (approx. 0.4 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Orange.
Credits. This page was last revised on November 3, 2023. It was originally submitted on April 14, 2018, by Cajun Scrambler of Assumption, Louisiana. This page has been viewed 333 times since then and 49 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on April 14, 2018.
