Fellowship Baptist Church

One of the oldest Baptist churches in Texas. Founded by settlers who came by ferry across Sabine River as early as 1818. After a number of homes were built on hills near good springs of water, a church was considered essential. It is recorded that this one ministered to spiritual needs in Republic of Texas era. Congregation assembled by riding many miles, usually in farm wagons, and with baskets of food. Original log building, heated by 8-foot fireplace with mud chimney, had split log benches. The windows, without glass, had shutters on wooden hinges. In season, school was held in this early building. The name "Fellowship" honored loyalties among the pioneer families. First pastor was the Rev. Wyatt S. Childress, a kinsman of Geo. C. Childress, one of the authors of the Texas Declaration of Independence. First church clerk was Dr. John Moses Taylor. Erected after sawmills were in use in the 1870s was second church building, of plank construction. This was several times relocated and remodeled. The present structure was built in 1939; enlarged 1967. The old "Busbee Place" Spring, initially responsible for choice of this site, still supplies water for the church and baptistry. (1969)

Fellowship Baptist Church is a historical marker in Joaquin, Shelby County, dedicated in 1969. It is one of 33 historical markers documented in Shelby County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 122 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 31.9374, -94.0258 near Joaquin. The nearest cataloged historic site is Johnson-Henrietta (cemetery), about 1.0 miles away. Others within a short drive include Jackson, Brookland Cemetery, and Morris, B. F..

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5419007678. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.