The History ofZionHill

In 1981, under the leadership of Rev. T.F. Simmons, Zion Hill Baptist Church had a vision to build a facility that could be used by the church and community. The members then followed their vision and obtained the funds to build what is now The Zion Hill Education Building. The building has been used as an election poll center, a community daycare, and a venue for receptions, anniversaries, community immunizations, and a meeting hall for the El Vista community.

In 2005, the church sustained significant damage in the wake of Hurricane Rita, which resulted in a full upgrade of the building and its contents. In 2017, once again, the church and education building sustained more damage as a result of Hurricane Harvey. Under the leadership of Rev. Eric Guidry, the education building became the worship center until October 2019 when the renovations to the church were completed.

Zion Hill has had eight pastors since its founding: Rev. S. M. Franklin (1953-1957), Rev. Nelson Swallow (1957-1975), Rev. Herbert Tezeno (1975-1977), Rev. Wilford Leopaul (1977-1978), Rev. Roger Lawdins (1978-1980), Rev. T. F. Simmons (1980-1990), Rev. James C. Henderson (1991- 2012), and Rev. Eric P. Guidry (2012 to Present).

In 1952, the newly developed living areas of Montrose (Port Acres) and Sunset Garden-Hannah Addition (El Vista) prompted the late Rev. S.M. Franklin, the pastor of Eastern Star Baptist Church (Port Arthur) to consider the erection of a church in the newly occupied area. The final decision to organize Zion Hill came as a result of a meeting held in the living room of Rev. S.M. Franklin. A building was purchased and hauled to Zion Hill's present site. Rev. Franklin would simultaneously serve as pastor of both Eastern Star and Zion Hill, with Alfred Cain Sr. and Rev. Nelson C. Swallow assisting Rev. Franklin. Rev. Swallow later became the pastor. Zion Hill went from a small wooden shanty to a larger wooden building with Rev. Swallow during most of the carpentry himself. In 1965, Zion Hill moved to its present edifice.

We have come this far by faith leaning and depending on our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!