Page 6 - Richmond Hill Driving Trail

STOP Canaan Missionary
7A Baptist Church

10872 Ford Avenue

Founded by Rev. David Boles, Sr., and Deacon
Brother Fred Gilbert in 1913, Canaan Baptist Church
was the only organized denominational church in
early 20th century Richmond Hill. The present
sanctuary was driven to the finish line with support
from Henry Ford, and many original members were
descendants of enslaved individuals from the nearby
Cherry Hill and Silk Hope plantations.

Mt. Zion Prayer House
STOP
7B Intersection of Brisbon Road and Highway 144
Originally established in 1899, the prayer house was
rebuilt in 1950 after a fire. Southern prayer houses
served as vital spiritual and community centers for
Black communities during and after enslavement,
offering a sanctuary for worship, fellowship, and
social support. These prayer houses often became
the foundation for churches that drove cultural and
religious life in Black communities.

Ford Employee Housing:
STOP
8 Richmond Hill Village and
Blueberry Village
Richmond Hill Village (The Bottom) Marker:
On Mimosa Street & 10950 Ford Avenue
Blueberry Village Marker:
On Oleander Street & 8827 Ford Avenue
Henry and Clara Ford built residential villages
to provide their employees with quality housing
and community amenities in the mid-1930s. This
initiative, along with employment, education, and
healthcare programs, was part of the Fords’ broader
commitment to revving up the well-being and
quality of life for the people of Richmond Hill.

Fuel Your Fun at one of our local restaurants!
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