Founded in 1867 by one hundred black members of Salem, Black River, Presbyterian Church who desired separation and received dismissal, Goodwill Presbyterian Church, U.S.A., became the first black church in Sumter County. The congregation first met in Goodwill School, established by the northern Presbyterian Church through the Freedmen's Board. Rev. Matthew R. Miller, a white minister, served as the first pastor from 1867 to 1880. In 1868 Hamilton G. Witherspoon gave two acres for a church site, and in 1890 three point seven four acres were bought from G.W. and A.M. McBride for a school site. Dr. Irby D. Davis was the first black minister and served from 1894 to 1924, followed by Dr. Warren J. Nelson from 1925 to 1960, Dr. E. McKay Miller from 1961 to 1969, Dr. Franklin D. Colclough from 1972 to 1988, and Dr. John B. Quick from 1989 as interim supply pastor. The dedication of its leaders and members inspired expanding religious, educational, and civic activities at home and abroad.