FIRST - African American US Congresswoman from the South, Houston TX
N 29° 42.862 W 095° 22.313
15R E 270551 N 3289490
US Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, a member of the Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church, when she won her election in Nov 1972, became the first black female elected to the US Congress from the South -- EVER
Waymark Code: WMY3GR
Location: Texas, United States
Date Posted: 04/13/2018
Views: 1
Barbara Jordan attended Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church in south Houston, a prominent church started by former slaves in 1872. The state historic marker in front of the church recounts the church's history, and its historical figures over the years, as follows:
"GOOD HOPE MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH
Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church was established by the Rev. Samuel Grantham. The pastor first held services in his own backyard before members built a structure out of wooden boxes. Because of its appearance, this first building was called a baking box church. In 1872, members formally established the church and erected a more permanent sanctuary in Houston's Fourth Ward. The church became an important place of worship for African Americans in Houston, and early members included former slaves. Since that time, the church has developed into one of Houston's leading community and spiritual institutions.
Several noteworthy Texans have been members of this church. The Rev. Albert Anderson Lucas is one of several prominent pastors in the church's history. He simultaneously pastored here and served as president of the local chapter of the NAACP. Dr. Lonnie Smith, another member, was the plaintiff in the significant U.S. Supreme Court case of Smith v. Allright, which led to minority voting rights in primary elections. Barbara Jordan, the first African American U.S. Congresswoman from the South, was also a member of the church.
Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church has continued in its service to the community through a variety of outreach programs. Over the years, the church has become an essential part of Houston's progress. The contributions of its leaders and members have had a positive impact on African Americans in the city of Houston and on men and women throughout the nation. (2006)"
FIRST - Classification Variable: Person or Group
Date of FIRST: 01/03/1973
More Information - Web URL: [Web Link]
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