Old Rock Baptist Church Plaque

Have you ever heard the tale of a church built with faith, stone, and a little bit of oil? We stand here, right in front of the Old Rock Baptist Church Plaque. It’s not a grand cathedral, but a quiet witness to a long history, a history of resilience and dedication. The story of Old Rock Baptist Church begins in 1857, when its roots were planted at Mann’s Crossing near Macdona, Texas, under the name Medina Baptist Church. The first services were held in homes and schoolhouses, before the congregation erected an arbor near Old Somerset in 1866. Imagine worshipping in a humble shelter of branches woven together – that’s how it started. In 1867, the church purchased land, including the cemetery, for a mere ten dollars. It tells you something about their commitment to faith and community. A member of the church, Elisha A. Briggs, a stonemason who had travelled all the way from Massachusetts, took part in the construction of the church. Even with a shortage of materials and a challenging environment, the church was completed in 1872. The first services started before the doors and windows were even installed. The church welcomed not only white members but Black and Mexican-American members as well, a clear sign of the church’s openness and welcome for all. However, in 1892, Medina Baptist Church moved again, leaving the Old Rock Church behind. The church fell silent for some time, only used for funerals and special occasions. Then came the Grayburg Oil Company in 1921. The impact of the oil discovery transformed the area, and the oil company helped renovate the church. It was more than just a simple renovation; it was a revival. The church was given a new name – Old Rock Baptist Church – and the congregation continued to worship there. Even though the church has seen its fair share of change over the years, one thing has remained constant– the spirit of community represented by the Old Rock Baptist Church Plaque. It’s a testament to the enduring nature of faith, the power of resilience, and the warmth of acceptance.