Thompson Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church, Opelika, Lee County

​In 1872 A.M.E. Zion Minister Rev. John Ford, along with laymen, organized an A.M.E. Zion Church in Opelika. By 1878 the congregation of Thompson Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church built this church in its current location. This one-story building is supported by wood and brick. The interior walls are plastered over original wood frame. The roof is hipped and covered with metal and trimmed in wood. The present structure has two chimneys. The main entrance faces Torbert Boulevard (now Columbus Parkway), and a second entrance faces a westerly direction. Double doors are at each entrance. Six stained-glass windows enclosed by wood sashes are on both sides of the church, and four stained glass windows are in the choir loft. The ceiling of the church consists of the original wood with heavy beams running horizontally and vertically. The wood floors are stained. A connecting parsonage was added in 1919. This one-story home is made of brick and contains six rooms, a hall, and one bathroom.

Membership has been composed of outstanding men and women, including the first African American doctor in Opelika, Dr. J. W. Darden, along with Bessie Brady and Eugenia Parks, who established kindergarten classes for African American students. From 1964 to 2014, Dr. A. L. Wilson led the congregation, and the church experienced significant growth. Wilson immediately became involved in the community, leading the church and followers to participate in and promote the civil rights movement. The church was listed in the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage October 19, 1979.

​The church has suffered significant water damage due to a leaking roof. Water intrusion has caused the plaster walls in the sanctuary to buckle and peel and the trim to rot. Damage is also evident to the flooring. The present condition of the sanctuary makes it difficult to hold services comfortably. Repairs need to be made as soon as possible to preserve the church and prevent further damage.