Founding (1898)
A small group began worshiping under a brush harbor in 1898. After prayerful effort, Mr. Walker Jones donated one acre for a church. The first building was a simple wooden structure with two front doors, three pew rows, slat seats, central columns, a wood-burning heater, and kerosene lamps. Reverend Arthur Cornelius was chosen as the first pastor; early leaders and deacons included Fred Butler, Inos Stewart, Henry Rouse, Monroe Rouse, Joe Calhoun, William Harkless, Tim Stewart, Saul Phillips, and Mack Asbell.
Early to Mid 20th Century (1898–1956)
Between 1898 and 1938 the congregation was served by several pastors (Capers; Jackson; J. G. Thomas; John Flagg; R. H. Williams; A. W. Walker; Mack McKibbens). In 1938 Reverend Patton W. Williams became pastor and served 18 years; membership grew, the church was enlarged, electricity installed, and a choir formed. Multiple deacons were ordained during his tenure.
Building and Property Developments (1956–1977)
In 1956 Reverend J. W. Cummings became pastor; by 1962 plans were made to replace the decaying wooden building with a brick church. In October 1965 additional land was purchased to enlarge the cemetery. Subsequent pastors included Reverend George Brooks (1968–1975) and Reverend Kenneth Hollingshead (1976–1980), during which deacons were ordained and rooms such as the pastor’s study and kitchen were added.
Ministries and Organizational Growth (1980–2005)
Reverend Wendell Dowdell (installed 1980) organized the Junior Church. Reverend Kenneth Hollingshed returned in 1984 and a Trustee Board was formed. Reverend Harris Hardwick (1989–1995) organized Bible Study, expanded services, laid a cornerstone, started a scholarship fund, and completed sanctuary/kitchen renovations. Reverend David G. Flowers (installed 1997) oversaw new pews, a sound system, annex renovation, a van and instruments, ministry reorganization, parking lot paving, and beautification.
Recent Era and Renovation (2011–present)
In November 2011 Minister Gazzara L. Mitchell, Sr. was called and installed in February 2012. Under his leadership the church expanded worship services, added fellowship breakfasts, revived Bible Study, added a choir director, and grew membership. Phase II renovations began in October 2014 under Deacon Darrell Cornelius; an electronic sign was installed in 2019. During the COVID‑19 pandemic (2020) Pastor Mitchell transitioned services to Zoom, later integrating virtual tools into regular ministry while completing Phase II spaces (pastor’s study, conference room, offices). Several deacons and trustees were ordained or added throughout his tenure.
Current Times
On September 29, 2024, Upper Mount Zion Baptist Church joyfully welcomed Reverend Eric M. Carswell as its pastor. With a heart devoted to serving God and a vision for spiritual growth, Pastor Carswell brought a renewed energy and focus to the ministry. Under his leadership, the church continues to thrive in its mission to glorify God, spread the Gospel, and nurture disciples of Christ. Guided by the church’s motto: “Resetting: Equipping disciples for the work of the ministry to better edify the body of
Christ,” Pastor Carswell has emphasized the importance of spiritual discipline, service, and unity within the congregation. His passion for teaching the Word and encouraging believers to walk in their God-given purpose has strengthened and inspired the Upper Mount Zion church family. Reverend Eric M. Carswell’s installation marked a new chapter in the rich history of Upper Mount Zion Baptist Church, as the congregation continues to build upon its legacy of faith, service, and commitment to the Lord.
Legacy
Upper Mount Zion’s history is marked by steady spiritual growth, repeated building and ministry improvements, and adaptive leadership that preserved fellowship and expanded outreach across more than a century.