Historical Marker

Antioch Baptist Church

Records of the Smith County Baptist Association indicate that this congregation was established in 1851. Members held worship services in homes and in the local schoolhouse until they built their first sanctuary in 1857. Since the church had only part-time pastors, Sunday School classes and the Baptist Young People's Union met on Sundays even when a preacher could not be there. By 1936, Antioch had a half-time pastor. A new church building, completed in 1939, was enhanced by an education annex in 1953. Serving the rural Sand Flat community, Antioch Baptist Church continues to uphold the ideals and traditions of its founders. (2001).