Viewing page 3 of 56

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

[[image - decorative border around the perimeter of the page]].

Present Building.

[[image - photo of church]].

"Blessed are they that dwell in thy house: they will be praising Thee." -Psalm 84:4.

Brief History

The First African Baptist Church of Richmond, Virginia holds unique place among the Baptists of the State. It being the Mother of Churches, was organized in 1780, one year after removal of the Capital of Virginia, 1779, from Williamsburg to Richmond. Until the year 1841, the congregation was mixed, the white members retired to Broad and Twelfth Streets, and the colored members retaining the old site and building at 14th and Broad Streets, paying $6,500.00 for the premises.

Dr. Robert Ryland, President of Richmond College, took charge as pastor, October 3, 1841. After the close of the Civil War, Dr. Ryland resigned and Rev. George H. Stockwell succeeded him and Rev. James H. Holmes became Assistant Pastor, then Pastor, in 1867. The old church was torn down in 1876 and the basement of the new church was dedicated in October, 1877. In 1878, 1,100 persons were baptized and added to the church. The church was finished and dedicated at a cost of $40,000.00. 

Rev. James H. Holmes entered into eternal rest, Sunday, November 25, 1900. He was the first colored pastor, having served the church for 34 years.

On June 3, 1901, Dr. William Thomas Johnson, was unanimously called to the pastorate of the church and on September 1, 1901, he took charge. Dating his administration the church was renovated and beautified. New pews were placed in the sanctuary, electric lights were installed, and a modern steam heating system installed. More than 3,000 persons were baptized. 

The Deaconess Board was organized in the latter years of this administration and Mrs. Mary Johnson was the first chairman. She served faithfully until her passing on March 2, 1940. Her mantle fell on another untiring worker, we speak of none other than our own Mrs. Zipporah J. Smith who is now carrying on in a very fine way. 

On Friday morning, August 28, 1942, Dr. W. T. Johnson passed into the great beyond after a pastorate of 41 years.

The Late Mrs. W. T. Johnson

Mrs. W. T. Johnson was indeed a helpmate to Dr. Johnson, our deceased pastor. She was instrumental in putting over great programs for God and 

[[end page]].