Historical Marker

Lee Chapel A.M.E. Church

Named for Bishop Benjamin Franklin Lee (1841-1926), Lee Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in 1888. Led by the Rev. George E. Smith, who also organized the first school for blacks in Brownwood, the congregation first held worship services in Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Later services were held in a brush arbor at Smith's home. The first church building, originally located at Cordell and Henderick streets, was moved to this site in 1906. An integral part of the city's history, Lee Chapel A.M.E. Church continues to serve its community. (1989).