First Baptist Church

This congregation traces its history to the origins of Jacksonville. When the International and Great Northern Railroad promoted the new town along its rail line in 1872, city lots were set aside for local churches. Deacons Enoch B. Simpson and Joel H. Wallace purchased two lots for a Baptist church in 1873. Originally known as the Jacksonville Baptist Church of Christ, the congregation was officially organized by twelve charter members on September 28, 1884, and by 1887 the membership had grown to sixty. Increased membership led to construction of a larger, two-story brick sanctuary in 1914. Additional facilities were added over the years, and that building was replaced by a still larger structure in 1950. Continued growth created the need for expanded facilities, and the congregation moved to this site in 1977. Throughout its history, First Baptist Church of Jacksonville has been involved in missionary and community activities and has consistently supported Jacksonville College and other denominational endeavors.

Jacksonville, Texas · United States