The History Of First Baptist Church

History credits the late Mr. Jeff Rush, Mr. Pate Willis, Reverend Harrison Elwell Singletary, Mr. Ruben Brunson, and Mr. Benjamin Lacy, Sr. as founders/co-founders of First Baptist Church.

During A. C. Jones’ tenure, the vision of building an upgraded edifice for worship was graciously undertaken with Superintendent Wade Banner as an integral and key player.

Mr. Banner was a bricklayer (exalted for his craftsmanship) engaged in numerous masonry projects in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Monies were appropriated over several years. When enough money had been donated, bricks were ordered through Bridger Corporation. These bricks were delivered by railroad boxcars.

First Baptist Church was built by dedicated members (no charge) personally undertaking the task of using their skills, abilities, and their physical labor. Mr. Wade Banner took a building leadership role. He would lay the brick corners during the week. The members of First Baptist who were skilled in building and masonry would work together and lay the bricks on the weekend. These members were French Ruffin, Tennison “Buddy” Ruffin, Booker T. Ruffin, Wade Banner, and B. J. Lacy, Jr.

Dr. A. C. Jones, a talented carpenter, utilized his skills to complete much of the interior design of First Baptist Church. Wade Cain was hired to sub-contract other carpentry jobs.

In 1949, under the esteemed leadership of Dr. A.C. Jones, the present structure was erected. The current structure was designed to accommodate a seating capacity of 350 worshippers. First Baptist Church was initially equipped without a central heating and air conditioning system, but one was later added. New pews, pulpit furniture, musical instruments (piano & organ), carpet, audio-visual materials, bibles, and hymnals were purchased. Since 1949, the basement of the church has been renovated to include classrooms, a kitchen, and dining facility. Also added were the Pastor’s Study, an administrative office, and Baptistery.

Under Pastor Taylor’s leadership, additional land for parking was purchased along with the Roosevelt Singletary property. In 1995, as the result of Reverend Gregory D. Taylor’s vision, the “Loving Hands Child Care Center” opened. The Child Care Center’s architectural design was drawn by a member of First Baptist Church, Sister Cleopatrice Lacy Robinson. The men of First Baptist provided the labor to renovate the existing house. To date, the “Loving Hands Child Care Center” is licensed by the State of North Carolina to provide quality, Christian child care and educational services to 25 children.

During the 1930’s, the Church served as an elementary school, and Mrs. Mary Hayes was the teacher. First Baptist Church has had a list of esteemed ministers who have served as Pastor of the Church.