Roswell Church Gets Historical Marker

Because of the combined efforts of Zion Missionary Baptist Church and the Roswell Historical Society future generations will know the historical significance of the Roswell church.

 A marker now displays the history of the historical church, which was organized in 1871 by a group of dedicated African-American Christians.

Thanks to land donated by white members of Lebanon Baptist Church, Zion Missionary Baptist Church became a one-story structure that also housed a school, according to the historical society. The church has survived two devastating fires; one that destroyed the original building in 1885 and one in the early 1960s. It was reopened following the last fire on Feb. 16, 1964. 

Each time devastation faced the church, members rebuilt and worship services resumed through prayer and determination. Thanks to that fortitude, the church has forged a major place in both American and Roswell history.

From the Civil Rights Movement to current day moral and social issues, the church continues to support missions and promote good will locally, nationally, and internationally, says a statement by the historical society.

The society added that Zion has lived its global mission and creed, which are:

"To Win Souls and Build up the Body of Christ." 

"A Refuge from the Storms of Life."

The church is located at 929 Zion Circle in Roswell.