A wealth of both church and local African-American history is one display for those that visit Mt. Vernon AME Church for a tour.
Mt. Vernon was closed in 2014 due to major structural issues.
It was listed by Preservation Texas in 2015 as one of Texas’ Most Endangered Places, and Mt. Vernon AME Project Restoration immediately began fundraising and stabilization efforts.
The Texas Historical Commission awarded the church a $ 10,000 grant for restoration and the congregation raised an additional $ 10,000 to match the state grant. In 2023, Preservation Texas awarded the church a $ 75,000 grant to repair structural issues with the building. Palestine Economic Development provided $ 15,000 in required matching funds and the AME Church provided $ 10,000.
Mt. Vernon AME Church member Tabitha Enge has been a driving force behind the preservation of this historic building. Enge and the faithful members of the church continue to host fundraisers and bring awareness of the need for preservation of this significant historical venue. In 2021, it was estimated that it would take approximately $ 300,000 to completely restore the building.
“ A lot of people have many memories of it being there,” Enge said.“ Deep down, it means something to each person that drives by it.” The congregation celebrated its 152 anniversary this year. While Mt. Vernon is being renovated, the congregation has their services in the Grant Chapel AME Church in Palestine
For questions about Project Restoration, call 903-948- 9648 or email mtvernon14 @ gmail. com. Mail donations to P. O. Box 2924, Palestine, Texas, 75802, ATTN: Project Restoration.
If you would like more information about Preservation Texas visit https:// www. preservationtexas.
18 SPRING EDITION 2025