Mount Olivet Baptist Church was founded in 1878, and moved uptown to the corner of Lenox Avenue and 120th Street in 1925, at the height of the Harlem Renaissance. They remain one of Harlem's most influential congregations. Offered here are:
"Grand Opening and Dedication Programme of the New Mount Olivet Baptist Church." Numerous illustrations including reproductions of James Van Der Zee photographs of officers and committees. The schedule is given for 7 weeks of programs celebrating the church's new home. [32] pages. 8vo, original printed wrappers; moderate wear and dampstaining; original owner's inked stamps and inscriptions. New York: New York Age Press, October 1925.
Campbell Studios. "First Anniversary of Dr. O. Clay Maxwell, Pastor." Photograph, 9 1/2 x 13 1/4 inches, with photographer's credit and caption in negative; minor wear. The church can boast of remarkable stability over the years; since this photograph was taken 87 years ago, only two pastors have succeeded Rev. Maxwell. New York, 27 November 1934.
Provenance: both items were found among the papers of General Grant Stephens (1870-1944, his given name), a longtime Customs House employee and deacon at Mount Olivet.
