Mt. Olive Baptist Church

Mt. Olive Baptist Church was founded in 1876 and has been a pillar of the African American community in Austin for over a century. The church was one of the first to provide a school for African American children in Austin, and its members were active in the fight for civil rights. Jacob Fontaine served as the church's pastor from 1888 to 1892, and his legacy of activism and leadership continued long after he left.

Mount Olive Baptist Church is a historic African American church located in the heart of Austin, Texas at 1800 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702. It was organized in 1889 by a group of formerly enslaved individuals who came to Austin after the Civil War seeking a place to worship and build a community.

The first pastor was Reverend J.H. Harold, who's leadership would help shape the church into what it was, a flourishing community for black people, especially because the church was located in masontown section of Austin, which was predominantly black.

The church played a critical role in the development of the African American community in Austin, providing spiritual, social, and economic support to its members. In the early years, the church was located in a small wooden building on the outskirts of the city. However, as the congregation grew, they decided to build a larger and more permanent structure. In 1922, the current brick building was constructed, and it has since become a significant cultural landmark in the city.

Throughout its history, Mount Olive Baptist Church has been at the forefront of the civil rights movement in Austin. The church was a center of activism and organizing, providing a safe space for African Americans to gather and strategize. In the 1950s and 60s, the church played a critical role in the desegregation of Austin's public schools, and its members were active in the struggle for voting rights and equal access to public accommodations.

The church's commitment to social justice has continued to this day. Mount Olive Baptist Church is actively involved in a range of community programs and initiatives focused on education, health, and economic empowerment. The church has a food pantry, a clothing bank, and a scholarship program, among other initiatives, and its members are involved in mentoring and tutoring programs for children and young adults.

In addition to its social justice work, Mount Olive Baptist Church is also known for its vibrant music ministry. The church has a long history of gospel music, with a renowned choir that has performed at venues across the city and beyond.

Overall, Mount Olive Baptist Church is an important institution in the African American community in Austin and has played a critical role in the city's civil rights movement. Its commitment to social justice and community outreach has made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals and families in the city, and its historic building is a symbol of the resilience and strength of the African American community in Austin.

“Church History.” Mount Olive Baptist Church, www.mountolivebc.net/church-history/.

“Mount Olive Baptist Church Historical Marker.” Historical Marker, 1 Feb. 2023, www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=25685.