Founded as a missionary church by the Rev. J.D. Walker in 1894, the First Baptist Church of Karnes City began in the same year Karnes City became the county seat of Karnes County. Early worship services were thought to have been held in the school building, and in 1899 the town's first church building was erected for this congregation. Other denominations shared that building until they built their own church houses. Early baptismal services, held once or twice yearly, took place in the San Antonio River or in a stock tank on a nearby ranch. As membership grew, the church added programs including a Women's Missionary Society, youth group, Sunday School, and Sun Beam band. It also helped establish mission churches in the area, and a local radio program served the area for many years. Over time, additions and improvements including a parsonage, auditorium, fellowship hall, and education building were completed to meet the congregation's needs. For more than 100 years, the church has provided support, education, and spiritual guidance for the area.