First Baptist Church of Hemphill has served the community since 1858, when Hemphill was organized. At that time, a number of families from other states settled in Hemphill, including the five families that established the church: the Simon and Mary Ann Beckom family, the John and Ann Everett family, the Cannon and Sophronia Travis family, the Richard and Rutha Travis family, and the Henry and Mary White family. The congregation first met in a residence before holding services at the old Housen Bayou School Building. E.S. Phelps and W.C. Southwell were its first pastors. In 1886, construction began on a building. New sanctuaries replaced preceding ones in 1910, 1962, and 1984 to accommodate the growing congregation. Since its establishment, the church has provided spiritually and physically for residents of Hemphill, with members contributing necessities and food baskets to needy individuals and families, while also focusing on aid for the elderly, education of children and youth, and mission work. Today it continues as an important leader in the community and a spiritual beacon for Hemphill residents.