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.

Mt. Olive Baptist Church 

Austin Church Driving tour focused on the 1928 plan and segregation.

New Hope Baptist Church, located in Austin, Texas, is a predominantly African American church with a storied history and a deep commitment to its community. Established in 1874, the church has served the East Austin community for well over a century and is situated at 2002 E. 16th St, Austin, TX 78702.One of the church's most prominent figures was Reverend Jacob Fontaine, a significant figure in the history of the African American community in Austin. Under his leadership, the church played a crucial role in spiritual growth, community outreach, and social justice.New Hope Baptist Church was heavily involved in various ministries and programs throughout its history, focusing on education, youth development, and support for those in need. As a center for the civil rights movement in Austin, the church saw many African American leaders and community members come together to discuss and organize around civil rights issues.In the present day, New Hope Baptist Church continues to serve its community through a range of ministries and activities, which include worship services, Bible study, and community outreach programs. With an unwavering commitment to fostering spiritual growth, promoting unity, and addressing the needs of its community, the church stands as a testament to the legacy of Reverend Jacob Fontaine and the enduring spirit of its congregation.

New Hope Baptist Church was founded in 1909 and has a long history of involvement in the Austin community. During the civil rights movement, the church played an important role in organizing protests and boycotts against businesses that refused to serve African Americans. The church also provided space for meetings and events for civil rights leaders.

New Hope Baptist Church

Christ Episcopal Church in downtown Austin is a historic church located in the heart of the city at 112 Medina St, Austin, TX 78702. It was established in 1853, just 3 years after the founding of the city, and is one of the oldest churches in Austin.The church's architecture is a stunning example of Gothic Revival style, with its pointed arches, stained glass windows, and soaring spires. The church building underwent several renovations and additions over the years, with the most significant being the addition of the bell tower in 1910. The tower houses a set of 11 bells, which are rung for special occasions and events.Throughout its history, Christ Episcopal Church has been deeply involved in the cultural and social life of Austin. During the Civil War, the church supported the Confederacy, and its members included prominent leaders and politicians of the time. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the church was a center of social and cultural life in the city, hosting events and gatherings that brought together the community.In the mid-20th century, Christ Episcopal Church became a leader in the civil rights movement in Austin. The church was one of the first in the city to integrate, and its members were active in the struggle for equal rights and justice. The church's commitment to social justice and community outreach continues to this day, with programs and initiatives focused on issues such as homelessness, hunger, and education.In addition to its religious and social justice activities, Christ Episcopal Church in downtown Austin is also a popular destination for visitors and tourists. The church building is a significant cultural landmark in the city and is open to the public for tours and events. The church's beautiful architecture, stained glass windows, and historic artifacts provide a unique glimpse into the history and culture of Austin.Overall, Christ Episcopal Church in downtown Austin is a treasured institution in the city's history and cultural landscape. Its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, rich history, and commitment to social justice and community outreach make it a beloved and important part of the Austin community.

Christ Episcopal Church in downtown Austin is a historic church that has been serving the community since 1853. The church has played an important role in the city's history, culture, and social justice movements. It is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture and has been recognized as a significant cultural landmark. The church has a rich history of supporting the community through outreach and social justice initiatives, and it continues to be an important part of Austin's religious and cultural landscape today During the civil rights movement, the church was an active supporter of the desegregation of public schools and provided space for meetings and events for civil rights leaders. In 1963, the church's rector, William Brewster, joined a group of religious leaders who marched to the Texas State Capitol to protest segregation.

Christ Episcopal Church

In 1859, the two merging churches, Christ Church and the Church of the Epiphany, united to form the Church of St. David’s. This momentous decision symbolized a coming together of contrasting views, with Christ Church being known for its anti-slavery stance and the Church of the Epiphany having a pro-slavery inclination that is now seen as a shameful part of their history, which the later leaders and members all denounced. The church changed its name to "St. David’s" in 1859, and was deliberately chosen to honor Bishop Alexander Gregg, who had presided over a church named St. David’s in Cheraw, South Carolina *5. The newly formed congregation found its home in the sanctuary originally constructed by the Church of the Epiphany between 1853 and 1854.While acknowledging the complex historical context, it is noteworthy that Edward Fontaine, the church's esteemed founder, owned a slave named Jacob Fontaine. Surprisingly, despite prevailing societal norms, Edward provided Jacob with the opportunity to practice his faith and deliver sermons. This opportunity nurtured Jacob's spirit and talents, ultimately enabling him to establish additional churches once slavery was abolished*6. As a revered figure in the African American community, Jacob Fontaine played a pivotal role in Austin, leading the flourishing black community and making significant contributions, including the establishment of the first black newspaper, the Gold Dollar*7.St. David's Episcopal Church has long been an active participant in the community. In 1924, the church acquired the former Physicians and Surgeons Hospital, transforming it into St. David's Hospital. This institution would eventually expand into St. David's HealthCare, a renowned healthcare system comprising 110 facilities, including seven hospitals, throughout Central Texas. During the era of World War II, St. David's demonstrated its dedication to community service by establishing the Church of the Good Shepherd in West Austin, as well as two schools and a chapter of the Order of St. Luke. Presently, the church remains committed to its mission of outreach, running multiple volunteer programs that provide assistance to the homeless, such as laundry services and meals. Additionally, St. David's offers various ministries and musical groups, enriching the lives of its members and fostering a vibrant sense of community*8.

St. David's Episcopal Church, established and built in 1854, stands as an enduring testament to Austin's rich history. Designed in the Gothic Revival style by its first pastor, Edward Fontaine. This remarkable structure holds the distinction of being one of the oldest buildings in the city*1. At the time, Edward did have a slave who was the sexton at the church, named Jacob Fontaine. While still a slave, he honed his pastoral skills by preaching in the basement of the old Methodist Church*2. Jacob would go onto become a leader in Austin’s black community, including helping to find 6 more churches, and creating the first black newspaper in Texas, The Gold Dollar*3. At the time of its construction, it was among a select few Episcopalian churches in the entire state of Texas. The church's origins trace back to the merger of two congregations: Christ Church, founded in 1847, and the Church of the Epiphany, established in 1851*4. Notable members of Austin's community attended the church, solidifying its prominence in the region.

St. David's Episcopal Church

Congress Avenue Baptist Church was founded in 1871 and has been an active participant in the Austin community for over a century. During the civil rights movement, the church was a center for activism and played a significant role in the fight for civil rights in Austin. The church provided space for meetings and events for civil rights leaders, and its members participated in protests and boycotts against segregation. Jacob Fontaine served as a pastor at Congress Avenue Baptist Church before founding his own church, First Baptist Church of Christ.

Austin Church Driving tour focused on the 1928 plan and segregation.

Mt. Olive Baptist Church

Introduction