History of Old Lexington
Baptist Church
In the northwestern part of
Lexington County is located a church, now known as Old Lexington Baptist
Church, situated on what was called the Old Charleston road. This road once led
from the counties of the Piedmont belt to Charleston before the impounding of
waters which make up Lake Murray.
In the late 1700's and early 1800's
there were Camp Meetings held during late July and early August. Whole families
would come in their wagons, bringing their milk cows with them and stay the
entire camp meeting period of three weeks or more.
From these camp
meetings a church was organized in 1813. Records state this church was
constituted March 20, 1813. The church was first named Saluda Baptist Church,
because it was located on the Saluda River. The church building was of logs.
This building was used for about 30 years. In 1852 Lexington County was
established. In this same year a new church building was built. The church was
renamed Lexington Baptist Church, and later changed to Old Lexington Baptist
Church. It was a large frame building with one section provided for slaves who
held their membership with their masters. One colored lady held her membership
at Old Lexington church until her death in 1912. She was a faithful worshiper.
She couldn't read but could quote more scriptures correctly than the average
white member. A number of slaves are buried in the church graveyard.
A
terrible forest fire swept through the area a few years after the church was
built, burning under the church, but kind providence spared the
building.
In 1907 the church was pulled around at a different angle to
face west and completely renovated, adding a recess and vestibule. About 1945
the church was recovered with metal, cement steps were installed, and other
repairs were executed. Later, Sunday School rooms were annexed to the
building.
Old Lexington Baptist Church was legally incorporated on the
20th of July, 1948 and is the oldest church in the Lexington Association. The
old 1852 church, having served the congregation for a century couldn't by any
means be called modern. Ground breaking services were held on January 4th, 1953
for the beginning of a new modern brick building.
Since then an
addition, housing classrooms, church offices and a fellowship hall have been
added.
Our
new building is an expression of gratitude to God for his wonderful goodness to
us. Never have we in our long and interesting history had an opportunity to be
so thankful and grateful to our blessed Redeemer as today. Glory to God
forever, Amen.
In March 2013 Old Lexington Baptist Church will celebrate
its 200th anniversary. The old church building from 1852 still stands as a
monument to our heritage, and will be used for several events in celebrating
our 200th anniversary.
To God Be The
Glory. |
|
Church History 
