About Us :

MUSEUM

Zion Baptist Church of today is the product of the sacrificing toils of great and useful Christian men and women.  The historical 'Old' church, now a museum, has been located on the corner of Lemon and Haynes Street since 1866.  It is believed to be the oldest building in the city of Marietta, GA.

Prior to 1866, Blacks, most of whom were former slaves, were members of the First Baptist Church of Marietta.  From the early 1860's several attempts were made to provide for separate worship services such as a separate conference and a separate place of worship.  However, in each case, a white representative was to be present.

In 1866, letters of dismissal were granted to eighty-eight (88) black members for the purpose of constituting a separate Baptist Church; thus, Zion Baptist Church was organized April 8, 1866 with Reverend Ephraim B. Rucker as Pastor.  Two week later, the first Sunday school was organized.  The present brick structure was erected under the leadership of Zion's third pastor, Rev. C. G. Holmes.  Over the next eight years, the church walls were finished, a new roof was added, new pews were installed, a new bell tower was completed, and a 1600-pound church bell was installed. 

The ushering in of the twentieth century brought many new additions to Zion.  The senior choir was organized around 1900 and soon afterwards, the church parsonage was purchased and the baptismal was installed.

The church began to grow stronger spiritually over the next few years and several auxiliaries were formed and additions made through the leadership of nine pastors during this period.  In 1954, Rev. J. R. Cook, a matchless preacher, energetic leader, and social reformer came to pastor Zion.  Under his leadership many improvements were made in the physical facility, the worship format was changed, modern equipment was purchased, bible classes began, a youth choir was organized, and the congregation grew to 380 members.

Come and visit the Old Zion Heritage Museum. There are inspiring memories to explore. You are free to take a self-guided tour through the precious moments of artifacts and photos of Cobb County and Marietta’s African American History or plan a group activity with memories to share.

Please schedule your individual or group visit anytime by calling 770-427-8749 Ext. 114. We look forward to greeting you.