Being a wilderness Sunday school mission established by pioneers from New York state, the church began in Captain Steven’s barn. Two missionaries from Pontiac began the work, which was then formalized by the charter of the church and call of the first pastor, Elder Benedict. The church continued to meet in five schoolhouses, individual homes, and in Mr. Eckley’s shop in Whigville. First Baptist Church was the first protestant church in the Michigan Territory between Pontiac and Mackinaw City. A site for the present church building was selected in 1843. Completed eight years later by the efforts of Pastor/Elder Edgar Randall, it was dedicated on May 21, 1851. Alfred and Alvah Brainaird were brothers who helped provide leadership to the church and assisted in the construction of the building as carpenters from 1849-1851. Prior to this Alvah had opened up his home for worship services, and it was Alfred who was an original charter member who drew up the covenant and articles of faith. Hannah Tupper was a noted member who was known for her beautiful soprano voice. It is reported that she rode horseback to fulfill requests to sing in area churches. In 1879 the church was able to call the Elder Edgar Randall to serve as pastor, his tenure was from 1879 to 1911. During his years of service the membership more than tripled. In a history of the church F.D. Atherton wrote about Randall: When he came to us he was a young man full of vigor and in the prime of his life. He and his faithful wife very soon not only became endeared to the church but to the entire community.” In 1883 the parsonage was built, mostly by Pastor Randall, and in 1886 the church was rebuilt and rededicated, Randall doing most of the interior work. Important changes in the organization and the structure of the building itself, such as the addition of the Fellowship Hall and building of a new sanctuary have taken place over the years. Many important events, such as our becoming a Michigan Historical Site, have become a part of our history. Many dedicated pastors and lay members have been influential in the growth of this church. The church celebrated its 175th anniversary in June of 2008. At the Centennial Celebration in 1933, Miss Jessie Cross said, “As we look back over the years and see the work the godly men and women of yesterday, through God’s grace, were enabled to do, we ought to consecrate ourselves more to the service of our Master so that he will be able to use us to do his work in this community.”