Scope and Contents From the Collection: Riverhill Missionary Baptist Church was formally organized under Rev. Robert Troupe in 1873 by a group of worshippers who previously attended nearby Macedonia Baptist Church. Shortly thereafter—about three-quarters of a mile up the old River Street Road—Sister Amy Wilson and fellow congregants built and named the first church edifice; the “River Hill” name has remained in use ever since. Over the years, under leaders such as Rev. H. B. Bland, the congregation weathered periods of trial and...

Scope and Contents From the Collection: Riverhill Missionary Baptist Church was formally organized under Rev. Robert Troupe in 1873 by a group of worshippers who previously attended nearby Macedonia Baptist Church. Shortly thereafter—about three-quarters of a mile up the old River Street Road—Sister Amy Wilson and fellow congregants built and named the first church edifice; the “River Hill” name has remained in use ever since. Over the years, under leaders such as Rev. H. B. Bland, the congregation weathered periods of trial and...

Scope and Contents From the Collection: Riverhill Missionary Baptist Church was formally organized under Rev. Robert Troupe in 1873 by a group of worshippers who previously attended nearby Macedonia Baptist Church. Shortly thereafter—about three-quarters of a mile up the old River Street Road—Sister Amy Wilson and fellow congregants built and named the first church edifice; the “River Hill” name has remained in use ever since. Over the years, under leaders such as Rev. H. B. Bland, the congregation weathered periods of trial and...

Overview In this oral history interview, Wesley Lyles reflects on his lifelong involvement with River Hill Missionary Baptist Church and its central role in his faith, family, and the Jones community. As the church's Sunday School superintendent, he discusses his responsibilities, childhood memories of church programs and traditions, and the importance of preserving the congregation's history. Lyles describes how the church has adapted to changes following the COVID-19 pandemic, recalls a past...

Overview This oral history interview with Jacqueline Burgman, Eddie McCormick, Fannie McCormick, Clara Henderson, and Susie Donaldson documents the history, traditions, and community significance of River Hill Missionary Baptist Church. The interviewees share memories of the church’s early location, the relocation of the church building, the nearby school, and the experiences of growing up in the River Hill community. They discuss church leadership, worship practices, community support, youth...

Scope and Contents From the Collection: Riverhill Missionary Baptist Church was formally organized under Rev. Robert Troupe in 1873 by a group of worshippers who previously attended nearby Macedonia Baptist Church. Shortly thereafter—about three-quarters of a mile up the old River Street Road—Sister Amy Wilson and fellow congregants built and named the first church edifice; the “River Hill” name has remained in use ever since. Over the years, under leaders such as Rev. H. B. Bland, the congregation weathered periods of trial and...