Longs Chapel Preservation Society was founded in 2005 to preserve the property and history of Longs Chapel. The church and its graveyard are located in Rockingham County of Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, near the intersection of Indian Trail Road and Fridleys Gap Road, approximately nine miles from the city of Harrisonburg. The society is registered as a Virginia corporation and recognized as a tax-exempt organization by the Internal Revenue Service.
The Longs Chapel Preservation Society operates under the direction of its President, Alfred Jenkins, Jr., who learned of Longs Chapel while researching the African-American history of the Shenandoah Valley region. After uncovering some of the story behind the site, he was determined to see it preserved and established the Longs Chapel Preservation Society. A native of Goose Creek, SC, Mr. Jenkins has served as President of WML, Inc., a government contracting firm in the South Carolina Lowcountry. He has also served in various community service organizations and as a trustee of his local church. He currently resides near Harrisonburg with his wife of 29 years, Robin.
The Longs Chapel Preservation Society is actively seeking community involvement in a variety of formats. One important need is for individuals who can help provide historical insight on Longs Chapel and the Zenda Community. We believe this story is an important piece of Shenandoah Valley and African-American history. We greatly desire to meet and speak with individuals who are familiar with the history of Longs Chapel, the Zenda community, and any other related topics. In addition, we invite you to visit our contributions page for information on how you can provide a tax-deductible financial donation or volunteer your services.