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Zion did not spring up by chance along a rolling river or upon a hilltop. The land in which Zion City planted its roots was sought out by a surveying team and then purchased by Dr. John Alexander Dowie for the sole purpose of building a religious utopia. Before the first spade of soil was turned, attention was given to every detail, from utilities to commercial areas and educational institutions and (most importantly) the temple. In less than a decade, Dowie and his followers built a self-sufficient theocracy that sheltered its inhabitants from the outside world.
Indeed, Zion boasts a unique history amd is a most intriguing study in the successes and failues of a planned city of God.

The Zion Historical Society was established in 1967. The society maintains Shiloh House, home of Zion's founded and a monument to Zion's heritage, in honor of those who came before and for the benefit of those who will carry the city onto the future. Its archives are rich with photographs, many of which were selected to create this pictorial history.

The Images of America series celebrates the history of neighborhoods, towns, and cities across the country. Using archival photographs, each title presents the distinctive stories from the past that shape the character of the community today. Arcadia is proud to play a part in the preservation of local heritage, making history available for all.