In honor of Black History Month and the reunion of the Marketplace churches this month, The Herald dives into the rich history behind the three African American churches that stemmed from that historic gathering.
Each church holds a strong position with black history and Yazoo’s history. The Herald shares each history behind St. Stephen United Methodist Church, Bethel A.M.E. Church and Mt. Vernon Baptist Church.
The sounds of spirituals and praise could be heard floating over the Yazoo River, as nearby trees danced in the wind.
More than a century ago, a large group of African Americans had gathered to worship at the Old Marketplace. Over time, their numbers grew in grace.
Some of the bonds and friendships that developed at the old, isolated site soon developed into the beginnings of St. Stephen United Methodist Church. The same sounds and feelings can be felt today, over 100 years later.
The late D.W. Wilburn, well-known community leader, compiled a history of the local church, which was officially established in 1866.
“During those times, there were no denominations,” Wilburn wrote. “It was simply a band of Christians worshipping God as they understood Him and serving their fellowman to the best of their knowledge.”
When the Old Marketplace crowd began to split, many worshippers decided to build St. Stephen at the same site it stands today on Jefferson Street in Yazoo City.
“There was not a black church at the time,” said long-time member John Wallace, in a previous interview. “St. Stephen became the centerpiece for blacks. Ancestors and offspring grew with the church, thus passing members on down the line.”
Many considered St. Stephen the first church of Yazoo City for African Americans. A wooden structure was completed in 1869.
“St. Stephen was the place to go,” added Wallace.
There is historical significance behind a church that was established only a year after the Civil War.
“Under the leadership of Rev. Talbert Gibbs, 100 members set out to build the first church of the city for blacks,” wrote Wilburn.
Five years later, a brick building was constructed under the leadership of Rev. Brooks. The church was rebuilt in 1888 under the pastorage of Rev. J.C. Houston.
When Rev. C.W. Smith arrived at the church, a brick veneered building was constructed in 1902. The structure stood for 60 years, serving in every respect that could be hoped for the promotion of God’s kingdom.
The church’s present structure was completed under the leadership of Rev. Allen Johnson with the final payment being made during the pastorage of Rev. H.M. Rankin. A service of dedication was held on Nov. 29, 1964.
Dr. William Nelson, whose great grandfather helped build the original church, said St. Stephen has always been a part of his family history. Virgil Nelson, who also served as treasurer at the Peoples Penny Savings Bank, was among those previous church leaders.
“This has been the church for my great grandfather, my grandfather, myself, my son and now my grandchildren,” Nelson said, in a previous interview. “Some of us have a real history here. It just feels like home to us.”
Many members joined later in life but still feel that family connection among the congregation. Wardell Leach, former city mayor and community leader, is one of those members. He grew up in the Baptist church but joined St. Stephen in 1975 because of Rev. B.S. Thompson.
“He had an interest in the children,” Leach said. “Playing sports and other games, he would talk to the kids. That won me over. But once we got in…we realized how united everyone was here.”
“Being in this church is like family,” he added. “It may be a small church, but there is always unity.”
Precious Banks, a local historian and long-time member of St. Stephen, is determined to keep the history behind St. Stephen alive for future generations. Along with Arthur James, she collects a variety of newspaper articles, church documents and other material to trace the historic church’s beginnings.
“The young people need to know this history,” Banks said. “The reunion at the Marketplace can do that. This will be the first time all three churches will gather in over 100 years.”
The reunion will be held on Saturday, Feb. 10, at 2 p.m. at St. Stephen. For more information, call Banks at 662-746-2950.
