First Baptist Church
This church’s oldest record is from September 16, 1787. Members first worshipped at a site 1½ mi. NW, deeded to them by Joseph Woodruff who fought in the Revolutionary War. In 1798, the church adopted the name “Bethel” which means “House of God.” The first building was a log cabin. Large outdoor revivals were held in the early years and a school was provided for the community. Larger meeting houses were built as the church grew.
In 1911, the congregation changed its name to First Baptist Church and moved into a brick sanctuary on Main St., one block east of the old church grounds and cemetery. The church moved to its present site in 1962 once the education buildings were completed. Services were held in the fellowship hall until the sanctuary was built in 1973. An 800-pound bell used by the church since 1888 hangs in the present steeple.
Where it stands. 801 Cross Anchor Rd., Woodruff, Woodruff