In 1845 ten people gathered. They discussed forming a church. This was the humble beginning of Evergreen Baptist Church. The meeting was led by Alexander Travis. Seven members formed the Evergreen Church. They adopted the Articles of Faith from the Bethlehem Baptist Association. Evergreen Baptist Church.
The church initially met only once or twice a month. Father Travis served as pastor. By 1846 the church had grown to 18 members. Evergreen Baptist Church continued to expand. In 1858 it reported 74 members. They shared a building with Methodists Presbyterians and Episcopalians.
Even the Civil War couldn’t stop the church’s growth. In 1864 membership reached 194. Evergreen Baptist Church’s influence spread. In 1893 it founded the Louise Short Baptist Widows’ and Orphans’ Home. This later became the Alabama Baptist Children’s Home. The church also established missions. These missions became independent churches.
Tragedy struck. A fire destroyed the church building. Evergreen Baptist Church persevered. They purchased the Union Church building for $400. A cyclone destroyed it. Undeterred a generous Mr Mertins donated land. This land became the church’s front parking lot.
A new sanctuary was built in 1908. It followed the “Dayton Plan”. Folding doors enlarged the worship space. Evergreen Baptist Church continued to grow. In 1977 the current sanctuary was completed. The original building was donated to the San Jacinto Area Public Library. It was moved to Coldspring.
Evergreen Baptist Church added a fellowship hall in 1986. A Sunday school expansion followed in 1989. After 35 years Pastor Gary Ladner retired in 2021. Pastor Dalton Currie became the new pastor in February 2022. Evergreen Baptist Church continues to thrive. It remains a vital part of the community. Its mission is to spread the Gospel.
The story of Evergreen Baptist Church is one of resilience. It’s a testament to enduring faith. It’s a story of growth and community. It’s a legacy of service and devotion. Evergreen Baptist Church stands as a beacon. It shines brightly in Houston Texas. It is a place of worship and fellowship. It continues to touch lives. Its history is rich. It’s a history worth remembering. It’s a place where faith endures. It is Evergreen Baptist Church.