Wow. Look at this building. This is the First Baptist Church of Murphy. Can you believe it started in a Murphy housewife’s living room? In 1900 Mae Cockrell and friends along with pastors from other churches organized a Baptist church. They had 34 members.
The First Baptist Church of Murphy wasn’t always here on this property. It originally stood on a half-acre lot on FM 544. That first building was one big room. Imagine that! Services were even shared with the Methodist church. They alternated Sundays. This meant services were only held on the first and third Sundays of the month.
The First Baptist Church of Murphy grew. Its membership boomed in the 1920s reaching a peak of 296 members in 1921. They needed more space. So in 1924 they added wings to the original sanctuary. A local carpenter Bert George did the work. It cost just $5000. That’s incredible considering inflation.
Later the need for modern facilities led to more expansions. In 1958 an education addition was built including a baptistery kitchen restrooms and Sunday School rooms. Even then there were no indoor bathrooms until 1958. Amazing to consider how far this church has come.
In 1979 a group decided to build a new church on South Murphy Road. Thirty-seven members including their pastor Milton Greer chose to stay. They reorganized as the First Baptist Church of Murphy. Services were held in the Community Center until they could move their original building to its current location. That’s devotion.
The church received a historical marker in 1982. They were able to move the marker when the building was relocated. This is a testament to their history and the community’s pride in it.
First Baptist Church of Murphy has seen many faithful pastors and members. One member Bonnie Eldridge had almost 43 years of perfect Sunday School attendance. Another Winnie Greer was the oldest member in 1988 at the impressive age of 78 years old. Madge Daniel served as church musician for over 60 years.
Today the First Baptist Church of Murphy continues to thrive. It’s a testament to the enduring faith of its members. It is a gospel-centered family of many cultures and generations. The church truly embodies its mission to magnify Christ multiply disciples and mobilize missionaries. It’s a place of worship and community that has stood the test of time.