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In 1875, a group of freed African Americans founded a church south of the Longview townsite. Sallie Rollins donated land for Red Oak Grove Baptist Church, and Rev. Rube Wright was the first pastor. The original site was near current Eastman Road and Interstate 20, adjacent to Swanzcey Cemetery. In 1926-27, the church moved to its current site on land bought from the Jacobs and Rollins families. About that time, “grove” was dropped from the name. Members were actively involved with Butler College in Tyler and continue to encourage and influence young people through scholarships. The church’s service and mission work has had a significant impact on the community and the region. |
