In 1870 freed Black men and women in Lancaster Texas gathered. They met in a small red schoolhouse. They yearned for a church a place of worship. This was the humble beginning of Saint Paul Free Will Baptist Church.
Saint Paul Free Will Baptist Church holds a special place in Lancaster’s history. It represents the unwavering faith and resilience of a community. Formed by formerly enslaved people it stands as a testament to their determination to build a future.
According to oral tradition the congregation organized in 1870. They acquired land in the late 1870s. Rev Augustus Ferrin served as pastor. The sanctuary however wasn’t completed until around 1892. A growing membership led to an expansion in 1905. The church’s original structure served the community for over 50 years.
The early members included John Millers Rob Richardsons the Creasy family John and Lucy Millermore Alfred Haley Waldo Chiles B M Whites Laura W Hunters The Porters and Guston Ferrin. These individuals laid the foundation for Saint Paul Free Will Baptist Church. They demonstrated incredible commitment despite challenges. Many descendants of these founders remain active members today. They uphold the church’s legacy.
The church’s first trustees John Miller Reason Porter and Gustus Ferrin signed a deed in 1882. They purchased an acre of land for $50. This was a significant achievement. Saint Paul Free Will Baptist Church became the first Black organization to own property in Lancaster. This act symbolized their growing influence and prosperity.
The church’s story is one of perseverance faith and community. It’s a place where history and faith intertwine. As you stand here before Saint Paul Free Will Baptist Church you feel the weight of its legacy. You sense the unwavering spirit of its founders. Their devotion continues to inspire generations. The church stands as a symbol of hope and faith in the face of adversity. It is a living testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit.