Brown Hill A.M.E. Zion Church

Our History

Rooted in faith.
Carried forward by generations.

1870
Our congregation begins

African American believers organized Brown Hill in 1870, establishing a community of worship in what is now Locust, North Carolina.

Milestones in our journey

  1. 1864

    Earlier roots

    Historical accounts suggest Methodist worship in the area preceded the congregation, with Brown’s Hill mentioned as early as 1864.

  2. 1874

    A permanent place

    On October 27, the congregation purchased approximately 9¼ acres for $40.

  3. 1877

    Identity and connection

    The deed was registered August 18. Historical accounts also connect this period with affiliation to the A.M.E. Zion Church.

  4. 1888

    A new church home

    Under first pastor Reverend H. C. Chambers, members completed a larger worship building.

  5. 1929

    A district transition

    The Brown Hill/Ebenezer Circuit transferred to the Concord District.

  6. 1990

    A new chapter

    Brown Hill became a station church following the separation of the circuit.

The people behind the legacy

Early leaders included Wesley Morgan, Solomon Reed, Michael Barnhardt, Adam Morgan, Henry Love, and Ephraim Green. Henry and Sarah Love were closely connected with the land and congregation.

Honoring the past · Looking ahead

A living legacy of faith

The historic cemetery honors generations of members. Today, Brown Hill continues its ministry through worship, discipleship, fellowship, and community service.