In the years following the Civil War, as a new dawn rose over the Nation, the African-American community felt a yearning in Coleman. This wasn't just a yearning for unity, but a deeper spiritual connection. Union United Methodist Church was founded as a beacon for this newfound hope. The existing church was constructed in 1887, standing tall as a sanctuary for both soulful nourishment and community resources. This was more than just a building; it was the heartbeat of a community, echoing back to the days of the First Great Awakening in the 1730s. This era ushered in a way of Methodism that allowed free and enslaved black people to “be themselves” as they wordshipped across the country. They could jump and shout in worship and they could give their testimonies out loud. For the first time, Black Christians had a taste of true religious freedom, paving the way for a unified spiritual community. The story of Union is unified to the surrounding agricultural landscape. The land previously belonged to the Holley family–Black farmers with deep roots in the land. The Holley’s sold a piece of their legacy in 1881 to help their neighbors sow the seeds of a prosperity for an emerging free Black community. With the sale of the property for 33 dollars, Union was established with surrounding farming families as its initial members. Union not only blossomed as a spiritual center but thrived as pillar of significance for the community’s development. For the next seventy years, Union was consistently recognized by Presiding Elders of the Annual Conference for its financial acumen, commitment to youth education, and strength in its membership. But as decades passed, challenges arose. The mid-century saw a shift in rural populations–“the city” became the new beacon of hope and propensity for a new generation. Union faced the daunting task of retaining its vitality amidst dwindling numbers. Yet, Union's legacy wasn't just built on its heydays but on its resilience during times of trials. Today, it stands as a testament of a community's unwavering spirit and its battles through national economic hardships, global conflicts, and the civil rights movement. Each brick, each corner, and each hymn sung within its walls encapsulate the enduring spirit of a community bound by faith and perseverance.

Research - Carolyn Brooks and Darius Johnson