Mt. Zion C. M. E. Church

Members of the Redland, Bethlehem, Prairie Creek and Chandler communities met near this site on Ephraim and Malinda Curtis' farm to organize the Mt. Zion Church in 1874. The congregation provided spiritual assistance, community outreach and encouragement to those needing it during the tumultuous reconstruction era after the Civil War. The Rev. M. L. Ragsdale served as first pastor. In 1877, Ephraim and Malinda Curtis deeded part of their land to the trustees of Mt. Zion for the purpose of constructing a building for worship and fellowship. By 1898, more room was needed, which led Peter Hill to provide land at this site for a larger building, constructed during the pastorate of the Rev. L. E. Craig (1890-1894). Over the years, additional facilities were provided to accommodate the growing congregation, with a third new sanctuary completed in 1990. Throughout its history, Mt. Zion C. M. E. Church has been a focal point for Redland and surrounding communities. A number of its members have gone on to become ordained ministers. The fellowship serves as a significant part of the area's religious and cultural history. (2001)

Mt. Zion C. M. E. Church is a historical marker in Ben Wheeler vicinity, Van Zandt County, dedicated in 2001. It is one of 84 historical markers documented in Van Zandt County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 167 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 32.3769, -95.5008 near Ben Wheeler vicinity. The nearest cataloged historic site is County Line Missionary Baptist Church (historical marker), about 0.5 miles away. Others within a short drive include Caldwell-Hill-Manley Cemetery, Redland Community Cemetery, and Roseland Plantation Home.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5467012595. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.