Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church

Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church was organized in 1868 by Rev. York Johnson, an ex-slave, who with 27 others separated from White Oak Primitive Baptist Church. Assisted by The Freedmen Bureau, Rev. Johnson established a benevolent organization, The Union Branch of the True Vine, and founded The Union Branch School. Known as the House of Bread, Bethlehem has served not only as a religious institution but also as a force for individual advancement, community involvement, historical endeavors, and advocacy for civil rights.

Virginia · United States