First Baptist Church of Anchorage traces its origins back to the early 1870’s when seven individuals, Kit Williams, America Duff, Margaret Hickman, Henrietta Butler, Willie Butler, Taylor Williams, and Mary Fields met regularly in their respective homes. The very first prayer meeting was organized by the Rev. Tony Ferguson of Green Street Baptist Church and was officiated by his pastor, the Rev. D.A. Gaddy. The service took place under a large beech tree near the home of Mary Smith. The house which is located on Lagrange Road near our present church is still be occupied as a residence. Out of these meetings grew a burning desire to have their own place of worship. As they continued to meet and pray, they were forever mindful to give God the glory which specifically asking God to supply their needs.

In 1875, First Baptist Church of Anchorage (FBCA) was officially founded on the southeast corner of Lagrange and Berrytown Roads. Since its inception, the church has become a strong viable institution with the community of Berrytown and its surrounding communities. As a matter of record, Berrytown took its name from one of its most prominent settlers, the Berry family. Lizzy Berry, along with Mary Lilly, was one of the first individuals to join the newly formed church by baptism.

As the Berrytown community grew, so did the church congregation.
The initial worship facility building inadequate, so under the leadership of Rev. Helm, a second wood-framed building was erected with the entrance facing Berrytown Road. The two stone posts located at the front entrance were built with some remnants from the initial church building. The church continued to grow in spirit and in numbers.

In 1918, the Rev. H. Bowen was called to pastor. He along with several church officers recognized the church’s need for an even larger worship facility. Under his leadership, a third building was erected. A church dedication service was held on October 12, 1927, with the Rev. Will Johnson of West Chestnut Street Baptist Church officiating. The third building remains to this day and continues to accommodate our worship service and auxiliary meetings.

Over the next twenty-five years, FBCA continued to prosper and grow. However, in 1954 under the pastorate of Rev. L. A. Offutt, a fire destroyed a major portion of the sanctuary. Much of the church interior was destroyed or damaged but the building structure remained intact. While the church underwent a major renovation, the church annex (at the time Forest School) served as a temporary sanctuary for worship services and auxiliary meetings. Once repairs were made, the congregation again worshipped in their beloved sanctuary.

The advent of integration resulted in the closing of the “colored school” directly across the from the church on Berrytown Road. The church purchased the building and land to allow for additional space to hold Sunday School classes, youth ministry activities, and auxiliary meetings. A few years later the church underwent additional work on the building’s facade, it also allowed for the installation of indoor restrooms. This pleased the church congregation and greatly improved the worship experience at First Baptist Church.

Throughout the church’s existence, it has supported numerous churches and civic organizations. It has and continues to support Simmons Bible College by giving to further Christian education. The church has supported many needy families in addition to lending financial support to the United Negro College Fund and the annual Hunger Walk. In 1998, The Brandon Bonner Scholarship fund was established and is administered by the church for youth to seek post-secondary educational opportunities. Numerous scholarships have been awarded. First Baptist remains a member of the National Baptist Convention, U.S.A. Inc. and is active in the Kentucky Central District Association. The Eastern Area Communities Ministries and Neighborhood Visitors also receive continual assistance from First Baptist Chruch of Anchorage.

Under the tenure of our current pastor, Rev. Warren Muir, Sr., the church has continued to make aesthetic improvements to its lawn, sanctuary, and annex. In 2001, First Baptist Church of Anchorage entered a new area of ministry by becoming a participant in Habitat for Humanity. Although First Baptist Church of Anchorage has undergone many changes, it continues to be a light on the corner of Berrytown and LaGrange Roads. We have to ask the question “Is there a brighter future for the church?”. The answer is yes. Rev. Muir wrote to the church in an open letter for the 118th anniversary: “The goal of a Christian is to spread the good news about Jesus Christ. Every project we undertake and every plan we make must embrace the aforementioned.

We at First Baptist Church of Anchorage acknowledge our past history and realize that there is still room at the cross.