Historical Marker

Zion Temple A.M.E. Zion Church/The Freedom Church

Historical marker location:
Madisonville, Kentucky
( 205 North Church Street, Madisonville, KY)

"Zion Temple A.M.E. Zion Church" - Founded in 1868 by Rev. Anthony Bunche, Zion Temple A.M.E. Zion Church is the oldest African American church in Hopkins Co. It was established in an old log schoolhouse given by abolitionist Hubbard Lunsford. The current site was purchased in 1878. A larger “box-type building” was erected in 1881 and named Walker’s Chapel for Rev. Willis Walker.

Reverse
"The Freedom Church" - In 1905, work began on a two- story brick building on North Church St. under the pastorate of Rev. R.B. Hendricks using all Black craftsmen. The edifice was completed in 1906 and renamed Zion Temple. In 1941, under Rev. W.E. Gantt the lower church was rebuilt and continues to serve as a place of worship. Dedicated February 1, 2020

African American A.M.E. Church
The song "Happy Birthday to You" was written by two sisters, Mildred and Patty Hill, who were both born in Kentucky.
Kentucky random facts
Hopkins County, Kentucky has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The county was officially established in 1806 and named after General Samuel Hopkins, a renowned soldier who fought during the Revolutionary War. Prior to its settlement, the area was home to various Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Shawnee.

The industrialization of Hopkins County began in the late 1800s when coal mining became a dominant industry. The vast coal reserves in the region attracted numerous immigrants and led to the establishment of mining towns such as Madisonville and Dawson Springs. These towns saw phenomenal growth as the coal industry flourished, and many residents found employment in the mines.

Hopkins County played a significant role during World War II as it housed a German Prisoner of War camp. The camp, located near Earlington, held around 1,800 German soldiers who provided labor for local industries and farms. This unique aspect of Hopkins County's history played a part in strengthening the local economy during the war years.

Today, Hopkins County remains an important contributor to Kentucky's economy. While the coal industry has declined in recent decades, the county has diversified its economy and focused on sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. The historic sites, natural beauty, and vibrant community make Hopkins County an attractive place to live and visit, preserving its history while embracing the future.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Hopkins County, Kentucky.

  • 1806 - Hopkins County was established on January 2 by the Kentucky General Assembly.
  • 1812 - The first courthouse in Hopkins County was completed.
  • 1826 - The town of Madisonville was established and named after President James Madison.
  • 1854 - The first railroad, Henderson and Nashville Railroad, reached Madisonville.
  • 1900 - The first telephone exchange was established in Madisonville.
  • 1936 - The Great Flood of 1936 caused significant devastation in Hopkins County.
  • 1955 - The Pennyrile Electric Cooperative was formed, bringing electricity to rural areas of the county.
  • 1968 - Hopkins County Central High School was formed through the consolidation of several smaller high schools.
  • 1970 - Pennyrile State Forest was established in Hopkins County.
  • 1988 - The Western Kentucky Parkway was completed, providing improved transportation access.
  • 1999 - The Hopkins County Coal Mine Disaster occurred, resulting in the deaths of two miners.