1941 

On June 30, 1941, seventeen individuals, led by Rev. W. S. Strong, met in a store front building at 23rd Street and Fort Street to organize Mt. Canaan Baptist Church. Pastor Strong served as the first pastor, and the church name was suggested by Sister Eddie Mae Strong. Pastor Strong served as Pastor from 1941 until 1949, but not before purchasing a house located at 2130 Fort Street. This is where the foundation began. Rev. H.M. Strong accepted the call in 1955 and remained until 1962.