Opelika in Lee County, Alabama — The American South (East South Central)
Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church
Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, October 4, 2025
1. Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church Marker
Organized in 1868 under the leadership of Reverend Father Glenn. Formed only five years after the Emancipation Proclamation was Signed, Bethesda became the first Black church in the city of Opelika. Bethesda, which means House of Mercy, was formed loyal to Scripture, with particular emphasis on The Great Commission. The present building was erected in 1903. Through its rich history, Bethesda has been the spiritual home of many of Opelikas most Prominent African-American citizens.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Civil Rights • Religion & Religious Structures. A significant historical year for this entry is 1868.
Location. 32° 39.029′ N, 85° 22.416′ W. Marker is in Opelika, Alabama, in Lee County. It is at the intersection of South 4th Street and Wilson Court, on the left when traveling south on South 4th Street. The marker is on the lawn directly in front of the church. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 201 South 4th Street, Opelika AL 36801, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in East Alabama and in Greater Columbus. It is also in the American South and specifically in the Deep South. Globally, it is in North America, a Gulf of Mexico state, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: George W. Andrews Federal Building and United States Courthouse (approx. Ό mile away); First United Methodist Church (approx. 0.3 miles away); Former Site of J. W. Darden High School (approx. 0.3
this page online
Also see . . . History of Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church.
Excerpt: Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church was established in 1868 in Opelika, Alabama, during a pivotal time in American history shortly after the Emancipation Proclamation. Newly freed African Americans sought spaces where they could worship freely, build community, and express their faith without restriction. Out of that season of transition and hope, Bethesda was born as a spiritual refuge and symbol of independence, resilience, and devotion to God.(Submitted on April 4, 2026, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida.)
Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, October 4, 2025
2. Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church Marker
It is on the lawn in front of the sanctuary.
Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, October 4, 2025
3. Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church
Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, October 4, 2025
4. Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church Bell Exhibit
Bell house erected August 19, 2018
Rev. Anthony Pogue, Pastor
Deacons
Henry Collins, CHR • Willie Threat, CO CHR • Johnny Dowdell • Orville Roberts • Waymon McGriff • Emdward Haynes • Henry Hodge
Trustees
Cora McGriff, CHR • Henry Collins • Larry Gray • Rickey Jones • Kathleen Delaney
Rev. Anthony Pogue, Pastor
Deacons
Henry Collins, CHR • Willie Threat, CO CHR • Johnny Dowdell • Orville Roberts • Waymon McGriff • Emdward Haynes • Henry Hodge
Trustees
Cora McGriff, CHR • Henry Collins • Larry Gray • Rickey Jones • Kathleen Delaney
Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, October 4, 2025
5. Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church (south)
Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, October 4, 2025
6. Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church (southeast)
Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, October 4, 2025
7. Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church (west elevation)
Credits. This page was last revised on April 4, 2026. It was originally submitted on April 2, 2026, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida. This page has been viewed 14 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. submitted on April 4, 2026, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida.
