Originated in 1875, St. Marks Presbyterian Church was the first black Presbyterian church in Rogersville. Formerly located in the Tenth Civil District, now McKinney Avenue, the church moved to the corner of Kyle and Hasson Street in 1912. The Reverend William H. Franklin, founder and pastor, served St. Marks and Swift Memorial College. Buried on the Swift campus, in 1898, Dr. Franklin received an honorary doctorate from Maryville College. The church ministered to Swift Memorial College's facility, students, and community.