The Bowen East District Baptist Association was officially organized in 1870, during the early post-emancipation era. Since its founding, the district has been blessed with strong leadership and visionary service. The association has been led by twelve moderators, some serving more than once across different eras.

 

Notable moderators from 1879 to the present include Reverends J.H. Garlington, John Womack, W.T. Mackey, F.L. Sanders, C.L. Williams, E.D. Slaughter, B.F. Patrick, N.G. Carr, O.C. Stiggers, and Eugene Cooks.

 

In 1906, the Women’s Convention was organized, followed by the establishment of the Sunday School Convention and the Baptist Young People’s Union. In the 1940s, this ministry evolved into the Congress of Christian Education, adapting to new methods of religious instruction. In the 1960s, both the Laymen’s Department and the Youth Conference were inaugurated to better serve men and young people across the district.

 

In 1981, the Laymen introduced the idea of a centralized district facility. After multiple meetings and vision casting, six acres of land near New Zion Baptist Church were purchased. By 1990, under the leadership of Moderator O.C. Stiggers, the old Drew Junior High School building was acquired and renovated.

 

In June 1991, the building—now referred to as the Bowen East District Center—was first used by the Youth Department to host its annual conference.

 

Later, in 2000, under Moderator Eugene Cooks, an educational wing was added. Today, the Bowen East District Center serves as the primary location for association conventions, conferences, civic events, and private functions. It also houses a Head Start Program, sponsored by the Community Action Agency of Tallapoosa, Coosa, and Chambers Counties.