Riverside, Walker County
Following the Civil War, many African Americans sought refuge, identity and spirituality through the organization of churches. According to oral tradition, a church site for the African American community was donated by James Broyles, a businessman and contractor at the local mine. A church building was erected and named after its benefactor. The doors of the church opened in 1895 under the leadership of Reverend Nemon. Broyles Chapel Missionary Baptist Church was the first African American church in Riverside and is a reminder of the struggle and determination of our ancestors. The church congregation remains active in the community.