Mount Olive Baptist Church

On Sunday, February 24, 2013, the Mount Olive Baptist Church historical marker was unveiled. Located at 121 West McFarland Drive, Mount Olive is one of two historically African-American churches in Kerrville, the other being Barnett Chapel Methodist Church. The church was organized in September 1902 and first met in a small schoolhouse on Paschal Street.  The first structure on this location was a simple frame building with no furnishings.  Members brought chairs from home for services.  After a piano was given to the church, Miss Deloris Gipson would drive from Victoria on the weekends to play for worship services on Sunday.
For many years the congregation owned the building, but not the land it sat on.  Then in April 1946 Riley C. Eggleston sold lots 13 and 14 in Parson's Addition to the church for $10 so it was at that time they finally owned the land as well as the building.
In 1961 the frame building was remodeled.  The church was extended, including the two entry areas, and a brick facade added, bringing it close to the appearance today.
In May 1990 lightning struck the steeple, causing a fire that heavily damaged the roof and attic of the church. The members met for several weeks at the Dietert Claim Center on Jefferson Street, and then in the church's fellowship hall until all the repairs could be completed.
Today a more diverse membership continues the community outreach the church has been known for over the years.