Lawson Baptist Church

Tucked between the trees along East Lawson Road sits Lawson Baptist Church. This isn’t just any church. It’s a testament to the unwavering faith and dedication of a community, spanning over a century. Lawson Baptist Church traces its roots back to a simple warranty deed, filed on February 15, 1912. Mrs. Mary J. Smith, for the modest sum of one dollar, laid the foundation for what would become a spiritual cornerstone of the community. The deed, signed in 1911, named C.C. Smith, J.M. Graves, and B.B. Graves as trustees of the “First Missionary Baptist Church” of Lawson, Arkansas. Yes, you heard that right, Arkansas. The earliest records reveal a small but growing congregation, diligently recording their activities, especially the delegates attending the annual meetings of the Liberty Baptist Association. The church’s commitment to spiritual growth is evident in their practice of forming committees to select pastors for revivals, even when a pastor was already serving the church. These early pastors often served multiple churches, reflecting the dedication required to nurture faith in the rural communities. By 1930, Lawson Baptist Church boasted 91 members, with services held twice a month. A decade later, despite growing to 102 members, the church still relied on bi-monthly services. It wasn’t until 1949, with 92 members, that Lawson Baptist Church finally called a full-time pastor. The church wasn’t just a place of worship. It was a cradle for new ministers. In 1938, Charles Nash and Ermon Webb were licensed to preach at Lawson Baptist Church. The following year, both men were ordained, marking a significant moment in the church’s history. The mid-20th century witnessed a period of expansion. Classrooms were added in 1951, followed by the construction of a new sanctuary in 1956. During construction, the congregation temporarily relocated to the Lawson schoolhouse, demonstrating their adaptability and commitment. The new sanctuary was dedicated in 1962, marking a new chapter. A fellowship hall was added in 1968, further expanding the church’s capacity to serve its community. The church continued to grow. In 1996, a new education building provided much-needed space for offices and classrooms. Land donations throughout the years, culminating in a significant acquisition in 2008, allowed for a much-needed expansion of parking space. Lawson Baptist Church stands today as a testament to the enduring power of faith, community, and a one-dollar deed.