For over 150 years, First Baptist Church Douglasville has stood as a steadfast beacon of faith, hope, and love in our community. Founded in 1875 with just 26 dedicated members, the church weathered the challenges of rebuilding after a devastating fire, relocating to meet the needs of a growing congregation, and expanding ministries to serve an ever-changing world. Through each season — from humble beginnings on Strickland Street to our present-day worship center — God’s faithful hand has guided, sustained, and blessed His people. This legacy is not merely about buildings or milestones; it is about the enduring commitment to glorify Christ and share His gospel with our neighbors, near and far. We give thanks for the foundation laid by those who came before, whose vision and sacrifice continue to shape our mission today.

Generations of families have made First Baptist Douglasville their spiritual home, passing on faith and tradition from grandparents to parents to children. Within our walls, couples have exchanged vows, newborns have been dedicated, and countless individuals have come to know Christ through baptism and discipleship. Behind every ministry is a story of volunteers serving faithfully, choirs lifting their voices in praise, and teachers planting seeds of faith in young hearts. These stories remind us that our church’s identity is not defined by programs or numbers, but by the transformed lives and enduring relationships built over time. It is a testimony to the unbroken thread of God’s grace working through His people. 

From 1899 to 1909, First Baptist Church Douglasville was shepherded by several pastors who helped guide the congregation through continued growth and transition. Rev. J.M. Spinks began his ministry in 1899 during a time of renewal after the church's rebuilding, overseeing steady progress in Sunday School and attendance. He was followed by J.W. Kytle (1902–1905), whose quiet service carried the church through the early 20th century, though few records remain of his tenure. H.H. Connell served from 1905 to 1909 and was known for his pastoral care and community presence; by the end of his ministry, church membership had reached 200 and the congregation was actively engaged in both spiritual and civic life. Overlapping with Connell’s term, C. Thomas Greer also served (1905–1910), contributing to the church’s teaching and pastoral leadership during a time of growing engagement. In 1909, Mr. and Mrs. E.M. Hagin were among several new members baptized in the reservoir of the Cotton Mill, reflecting the church's ongoing evangelistic spirit.

Following this season, J.T. Gibson served as pastor from 1911 to 1915, leading the church through the early years of a new decade. J.D. Winchester briefly followed in 1916, succeeded by J.B. Tallent who served from 1917 to 1918. Each of these pastors helped sustain the church’s ministries and maintain its steady growth amid the changing times. By 1919, First Baptist Church of Douglasville had grown to approximately 200 members. Sunday School flourished with consistent weekly meetings and multiple active classes, and a revival led by Rev. J.B. Philips raised $1,400, completely eliminating the church’s existing debt. The church continued to thrive in fellowship, stewardship, and attendance, laying the groundwork for the expansion to come in the 1920s.

From the mid-1920s through the early 1950s, First Baptist Church Douglasville continued to grow under the leadership of several faithful pastors. J.E. Lowery served from 1926–1927, followed by C.W. Howard in 1929, and E.B. Autry, who pastored from 1929 to 1933. Otis W. Garland then led the church from 1935 to 1937, paving the way for Rev. W.B. Underwood’s ministry (1940–1943), during which the sanctuary was remodeled and new pews were installed—many donated in memory of loved ones. As the congregation grew, a building fund was launched in 1943, and a committee was formed to plan for expansion. Margaret Marchman, a dedicated member, served as a Southern Baptist missionary to Nigeria from 1941 to 1969, exemplifying the church's growing global impact. When Rev. Pat A. Johnson became pastor in 1943, he oversaw a major period of growth, including the addition of youth department huts and the purchase of new property to support expanding ministries. In 1948, the church completed a 35-classroom educational building at a cost of $43,500, which was dedicated in 1953. Though some questioned whether all the rooms would be used, God faithfully filled the space with growing ministries and new members, marking one of the most rapid seasons of growth in the church’s history. 

By 1950, the church membership had increased to 616, reflecting decades of steady growth. This growth followed key milestones like the construction of educational buildings and active youth ministries. The post-war period brought an influx of new families and increased community engagement. It marked a turning point for long-term strategic development in facilities and ministries.

Beginning in 1958, Rev. Milton Dwelle led First Baptist Church Douglasville through over two decades of significant growth and ministry expansion. Under his leadership, the church added a full-time Minister of Music, launched a Kindergarten, and planted missions in several local communities—two of which became churches. By the mid-1960s, membership had surpassed 1,100, Sunday School enrollment had more than tripled since 1919, and ministries like WMU, youth programs, and choirs flourished. The church’s vision expanded to include both local outreach and global missions. After Rev. Dwelle’s tenure, Frank Singleton served as interim pastor in 1981, followed by Rev. Woodrow Hudson (1981–1989), continuing the legacy of steady leadership and faithful service.