The History of First Baptist Church of Avinger, TX

First Baptist Church of Avinger, originally Hickory Hill Baptist Church has been in this location for 109 years.

According to the best information we have at this time, from the Archives of Southwestern Seminary, Ft. Worth and Baylor University, Waco and individuals, the Hickory Hill Baptist Church was organized in 1852. The one room wood building was located one mile south of the present location near the old Pattillo homestead. In 1856 the church helped organize the Rehoboth Association. In 1857 the membership of 30 had services twice a month. Some time before 1864 we joined Salem Association.

On October 15, 1864 the second anniversary of the Salem Association was held with the Hickory Hill Church, now First Baptist Church of Avinger. The Rev. E. Blanton was pastor at this time.

A deed dated January 1, 1881 shows the church acquired land from Mr. H. J. Avinger and wife. The old church building was tom down and a new one built on this land. - The lot is now the front yard of the new parsonage. The building was set up facing the railroad and later turned around to face Depot Street.

In August 1920, the Ladies Aid of Avinger was organized under the leadership of Mrs. H. G. L. Busby. Mrs. Busby was the wife of the first convention preacher. He was a graduate of Southwestern Seminary of Ft Worth. Bro. Busby was holding a revival in the church at that time. The following officers were elected: President - Mrs. A. V. Simpson, Vice President - Mrs. W. B. Duncan, Secretary-Treasurer - Mrs. R. L. McCain. There were seven charter members including the officers. Dues were ten cents per month.

In 1929, the church joined the Pitts burg Association. In 1941 we joined the Enon Association. In 1947 we built our first parsonage on Highway 49 East

In 1954, we purchased the Johnson Hotel lot and additional land from H. J. Avinger to square up our lot. In 1955-56, we built our new church building on this lot. In 1957.we sold or old church building to a black congregation near Karnack. It is still in use. In 1962, our Fellowship Hall with Sunday School rooms above was constructed. In 1979 the present parsonage was built and the old one sold.

Twenty-nine pastors have served this church. Bro. G. K. Williams served the longest period of time.

The property is valued at $537,000 and we have a resident membership of 398.

Since our last homecoming (1987), the Baptist Young Women and the Girls in Action organizations have been added to our church.

In 1989 a playground was added to the church grounds in memory of Bro. Jack Salmon.  

Last updated by the History Committee for 1989-90: Albert Coppedge, Gladys Coppedge and Mary Pitchford