Reflecting the setting sun the steeple of Cartersville Baptist Church stands tall. It watches over a community with a rich history. Cartersville Baptist Church is more than just a building. It is a testament to faith resilience and community.
Cartersville Baptist Church’s story starts with Rose Carter. In 1903 she donated land for the church. Her mother Bethia Fairfax bought 27 acres after emancipation in 1846. This land then passed to Rose Carter. Cartersville was a small colony of African American families. It was located in the northern Virginia suburbs of Washington DC.
Services began in member’s homes in the early 1860s. Reverend Wooden was their leader. After Rose Carter’s donation an official church was built. This served black families in Cartersville and nearby Woodentown.
The church played a vital role in education. In 1927 it became a segregated grade school. It served Cartersville’s children. This continued until 1939. That was when the Colored School of Vienna later Louise Archer Elementary School opened.
Tragedy struck Cartersville Baptist Church twice. Fires claimed the building in 1951 and 1972. Arson was suspected in at least one incident. However no official investigation occurred. The community rebuilt and rededicated the church in 1979. It stands strong to this day.
Many current members are descendants of the original congregants. They share stories passed down through generations. Community and Christian values are cornerstones. These are the secrets to its long life. The Fairfax County History Commission recognized the church’s history. They awarded a plaque. Cartersville Baptist Church’s story lives on. It is not just in the building. It is in the hearts of those touched by it.
Cartersville Baptist Church stands as the oldest church on Hunter Mill Road. It is one of Virginia’s first churches. Free African Americans founded it. The church served residents of Cartersville and Woodentown. It also served as a school.
The church’s original cemetery is behind the church. It sits to the east on land no longer owned by the church. One tombstone marks Rosie Carter’s grave. Other burials were marked by rocks or mounds. The church’s parking lot was built over older burial grounds. A side cemetery was created due to a land sale in 1918.
In 1927 Cartersville requested a teacher from the Fairfax County School Board. The School Board provided a teacher until 1939. A Fairfax County History Commission marker was placed here in July 2006. It honors the church’s long history.
Cartersville Baptist Church’s mission is to be the heart of its community. It aspires to revive a fading generation. This is done through the love of Christ. Cartersville Baptist Church is a small church with a big heart. It works to push that legacy to newer heights. Love can heal. Love can shield. Love can save.
Today Cartersville Baptist Church continues its mission. It offers Sunday worship and Wednesday Bible study. It embraces modern technology with Facebook Live services. The church preserves its vivid past. It continues its ongoing impact. This is done through the hearts of all who have been touched by it.