March 18, 2025

About the Event

First Missionary Baptist Church and the Thomasville History Center proudly announce a shared lecture for Tuesday, March 18 in the Church’s  sanctuary. The Rev. Jeremy Rich and Historic Preservationist Eric Menninger will discuss the history of the congregation and the building in which they have worshiped for generations. Learn what has been uncovered in the restoration process and see behind the scenes of this historic structure.

Born out of the Thomasville Baptist Church, a congregation founded in 1849 that included both White and enslave Black members, the group that would form First Missionary Baptist Church officially began their own congregation in September of 1866 following the Civil War and Emancipation. Under the name “First African Baptist Church of Thomasville,” the congregation was given land by Simeon Alexander Smith for the purpose of building their own church.

While little was recorded about the first church on the property, the second building phase that we see today was started in 1890 and took ten years to complete. The building has changed and evolved over the last century as has the congregation. Discover what changes have taken place and the reasons behind them. See how this church has been a reflection of Thomas County’s evolution over time as well.

Join us at 7:00 pm to tour the historic sanctuary and enjoy fellowship with members of the congregation and History Center friends before the program begins at 7:30pm. 

Admission to this event is free and open to all.