This information was found in the vertical files of the Longview Library. It was a photo copied article with no name of the newspaper and no date.

On the 6th of June, by invitation of a colored preacher, Elder Richard Perry, formerly of Calvert, now of Shreveport, La., who had been holding a meeting of several days with the colored people of Longivew, Elder J.P. Melton and the writer, assisted in the organization of a colored Baptist Church in this place.

Eight letters of dismission were presented and read from different churches. The writer being invited to act as moderator, and Elder Melton as Secretery of the meeting. Preamble and Resolutions having been prepared by the undersigned, were read and unanimously adopted, and the brethren proceeded to organize themselves into a church of Christ, after the New Testament plan, by adopting the Articles of Faith and Church Covenant used among the churches. Rules of Decorum were then read and adopted. One brother who had been ordained Deacon, at Marshall, was invited to serve in that office and accepted. Another member was elected to the office, to be ordained at some future meeting.

On Sunday the 7th, twelve more members were received on letters of dismission, and 26 converts were received by baptism, many of whom had been Methodists. In the evening of the Sabbath, the Lords Suypper was administered. The church was greatly revived, and proceeded immediately to secure a lot on which to build a house for the lord. Elder Perry was unanimously called to preach as pastor, but as yet he has not signified his acceptance. Elder Perry seems to be blessed with administrative ability. All that has been done, so far, has been due to his apparently excellent judgement and management. He seems to have clear views of Scripture doctrine and church policy, and we think that under his ministrations the church will be able to grow in usefulness and correct principals and practices, without the many fanatical errors and absurdities too common among the ignorant.

During the meeting that was held for a week, he had the aid of Elder Massey, pastor of the colored church at Marshall, and one or two others from the surrounding country. The name adopted by the church was "Bethel" - appropriate and scriptural - and as they were admonished, after their organization, it is hoped they will grow up a spiritual "house of the Lord", "to offer up spiritual scrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ".

The house of worship for the white church is now under way. The frame is up and it will be a commodious and imposing edifice, in an eligible position and a place whither it is believed the tubes will delight to go up and offer their sacrifices of prayer and praise.

D.S. Snodgrass
Longview Texas
May 16, 1874