First Baptist Church of Farmers Branch Plaque

The First Baptist Church of Farmers Branch Plaque tells a story of faith, community, and resilience. This plaque, erected in 1999 by the Texas Historical Commission, stands here to honor the legacy of this church, founded in 1846. Its beginnings can be traced back to the Keenan family, who settled in Farmers Branch in 1842. They established a family cemetery on this very site where they buried their infant son. In 1846, the Keenans, along with the Reverend David Myers, organized the Union Baptist Church, conducting services in a structure on the cemetery property. This church, however, moved to nearby Carrollton. The story doesn’t end there though. In 1870, twelve members of the Union Baptist Church formed the Farmers Branch Missionary Baptist Church. This was a homecoming for the Baptists of Farmers Branch. They initially held their services in the Farmers Branch School, which stood about two miles east of the cemetery. A decade later, the first pastor, the Reverend George W. Good, was appointed. By 1877, the church had grown to 96 members. The congregation continued to grow and in 1931 a new church building was constructed. Another addition was made in 1944. The church’s name was officially changed to First Baptist Church of Farmers Branch in 1951. This small act reflected the church’s commitment to its community and its position as a cornerstone of faith in Farmers Branch. Over the ensuing decades, the church continued to flourish with additions such as an auditorium in 1956 and a church library in 1959. The church’s legacy is one of perseverance, growth, and unwavering faith. They continued their work in the community with educational programs, community service, domestic and foreign missions, and a dedication to religious education and worship. This plaque marks the dedication of the church to its community and its strong connection to the history of Farmers Branch. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the remarkable journey of a church that has touched the lives of countless individuals across generations.