First Baptist Church of West Orange

After a series of successful revivals held by the Reverend T.H. Feagin, 16 residents formed what would become First Baptist Church of West Orange in 1902. The Reverend W.G. Derrington served as the first pastor. During the first year, the church met in a small school building. In 1903, the congregation built a one-room church on Fourth Street (later Dayton Street). New facilities were built in 1922, 1942 and 1986. The congregation established local mission churches: Winfree Baptist Church, McDonald Memorial Baptist Church and Calvary Baptist Church. Through its work, the church has had a significant impact on the community and region. (2023)