New Zion Temple Church - Worldwide Fellowship, Inc.
Historical marker location:New Zion Temple Church Worldwide Fellowship, Inc. was founded as The Little
Church on Ruthven Street, a Church Of God In Christ congregation. Bishop
Hayward W. Falls fulfilled the communitys needs by using donated supplies to
erect a wood-framed storefront building in March 1933 at 1601 Ruthven, in the
historic Freedmens Town district of the fourth ward. He bought the property in
1938 and sold it to church trustees for one dollar. When the storefront
building was expanded and renovated in September 1941, the name was changed to
New Zion Temple Church Of God In Christ. The current edifice was erected and
opened in May 1946.
The congregation remained under Church Of God In Christ jurisdiction until May
1951, when Elder Falls heeded the call of God and established New Zion Temple
as Non-denominational. Elder Falls was an early disciple and later an overseer
of the Latter Rain Movement, which interprets the bible in a symbolic and
stylized manner. With the organization of the Worldwide Fellowship in 1952, New
Zion Temple became headquarters and host for its national meetings and
conventions. On May 26, 1983, its name officially changed to include Worldwide
Fellowship, Inc.
New Zion Temple has been committed to spreading the word of God. With its
assistance, other churches have been established in Texas, California,
Louisiana, Ohio, Jamaica, the Bahamas, and England. Today, the congregation
supports a food pantry and clothes closet, annual holiday donations, a prison
ministry, and Juneteenth celebrations. Known for its generosity, the church has
served as a nucleus for social, economic, educational, political, and cultural
life.
* 175 Years of Texas Independence * 1836-2011
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
Texas is known for its love of football, and the state has produced many great football players, including legends like Tom Landry, Earl Campbell, and Vince Young.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, Harris County experienced rapid economic diversification and growth. The discovery of oil in the Spindletop field fueled Houston's emergence as an energy and petrochemical hub. Industries like cotton, lumber, shipping, and manufacturing thrived. NASA's Johnson Space Center further solidified the county's significance in space exploration and technology.
Harris County's demographic diversity is a defining aspect, attracting immigrants from various backgrounds. Houston became a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant culinary scene, dynamic arts community, and diverse festivals, reflecting its multicultural fabric.
Today, Harris County remains an influential economic and cultural center. Its strong economy spans energy, healthcare, technology, and international trade. The county houses renowned medical facilities and research institutions. Despite facing natural disasters, Harris County showcases resilience and implements measures to mitigate their impact.
With its rich history, economic vitality, multiculturalism, and ongoing growth, Harris County continues to shape Texas as a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and innovation.
Harris County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Harris County, Texas.
Pre-19th Century: The region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and Atakapa.
1822: Harrisburg, the county's first settlement, is founded by John Richardson Harris, a pioneer and one of the early Texas colonists.
1836: The Battle of San Jacinto, which secured Texas independence from Mexico, took place in present-day Harris County.
1837: Harris County is officially established and named after John Richardson Harris.
19th Century: Houston, the county seat and the largest city in Texas, experiences rapid growth due to its strategic location along Buffalo Bayou and the construction of railroads. The city becomes a major commercial and shipping hub, attracting industries such as cotton, lumber, and oil.
20th Century: The discovery of oil in the nearby Spindletop field and the subsequent growth of the oil industry greatly contribute to Harris County's economic development. Houston becomes an energy and petrochemical center.
1960s-1980s: The space industry plays a crucial role in Harris County's history with the establishment of NASA's Johnson Space Center, where mission control for the Apollo program is located.
Today: Harris County continues to be a thriving economic and cultural center. It is home to a diverse population, numerous industries, world-class medical facilities, and renowned cultural institutions.