Our History

1877

The Baptist fellowship in Oxford began in Reed’s Hall, Oxford and meetings were recorded in the Oxford Press in the July 4th edition.

1881

A Baptist Council (Central Union) met and recognized the group as a church.

1888

The first church building, on South Third Street, was purchased for $2,425.00 from the Oxford Methodist Episcopal Church.

1910

The congregation was incorporated as the First Baptist Church of Oxford.

1926

The property on the corner of Sixth and Market Streets was purchased from the United Presbyterian for $15,000. Built in 1894, it was designed by noted architect Isaac Pursell. The vaulted sanctuary with its stained glass windows, warm wood and unique arched baptistery provides a worshipful environment.

1964

The Christian Education wing was built to expand spaces for classes.

1978

The Centennial Celebration featured the publication of a booklet, Beginning a Second Century of Service,1878-1978. Members were challenged to contribute $100 to establish the Centennial Fund to assist those preparing for full-time Christian vocations with educational expenses. Beneficiaries included two women who grew up in the church.

1990

The first Missions Conference was held. This annual event features guest speakers and a focus on local and international missions. A theme song and Scripture are selected to challenge the congregation to be involved.

2003

The 125th anniversary was celebrated with monthly fellowships, the publication of a cookbook and creation of a memory quilt.

2006

After much prayerful consideration, the congregation voted to remove our association with the American Baptist Churches USA. We remain an unaffiliated church with strong Baptist roots.

†The above was adapted from a newspaper article written for the 75th anniversary and Beginning a Second Century of Service, 1878-1978, a booklet prepared for FBC’s Centennial in 1978.