A HISTORY OF WOODLAWN BAPTIST CHURCH

By Mrs. J. W. (Alma Hatley) Westmoreland (December, 1973)

Updated by J. W. Westmoreland, Jr. (July, 1980)

Addendum by Ursula (Sue) Kee Bender (August, 1980 - August, 1990)

Addendum by J. W. Westmoreland, Jr. (September, 1990 - July, 1995)

Updated 2024 by Georgia Douglas, Judson Strawbridge, Oliver Black and David Holt.

The Woodlawn Baptist Church, since its organization on July 21, 1850, has grown from a charter membership of thirteen who met in a cold, one- room, fourth- Sunday meeting house, with baptisms in mill ponds, to a spiritual for tress of approximately 250 members meeting, worshipping and fellowshipping in an expansive, air-conditioned sanctuary, containing a baptistry; a social room which can be sectioned into four classrooms; twenty other classrooms; a two room nursery with a restroom; five other restrooms; a kitchen, a large youth fellowship meeting room and a pastor's study.

The church was originally named Bethesda Baptist Church by the charter members, who "being thirteen in number, were regularly covenanted as a church and organized into a Baptist Church of the Missionary Faith and Order. "

An edifice was erected two miles southwest of what is now Woodlawn, Texas, near the residence of Col. Charles Carter Mills. Later it was moved to a site across from the entrance to the Woodlawn Cemetery, approximately one mile to the north. Minutes are missing from 1850 to 1893, but the map which was drawn when Woodlawn was plotted in 1872 indicates that Captain Henry L. Berry, co-donor of the townsite, also donated land for a church site in the northwest corner of the city plot. The frame building, already once removed, was moved to this site in 1877.

The existing minutes from 1892 through 1945, complete save for lapses when there was no pastor, have been rebound. These minutes reveal that in the first half-century members were under severe strictures. Many are the letters of dismissal fornonconformity. After members were first warned, they were put on probation, and finally tried, if any improvement had not been noted. Brought against members were such charges as "tattling", "insubordination", "unfair and dishonorable dealings", "dancing" and most frequently "non-attendance at church".

Though there were trials and tribulations, there was also a generated spirit of good neighborliness and friendliness as they had "dinner on the ground" after the fourth Sunday services a time for visiting and fraternizing; for sampling each other's potato salad and jam cakes; and for exchanging family news.

During the first century, the growth of the church was lethargic, sometimes retarded, with no activities, such as in the Winter of 1944 when the lack of firewood caused complete cessation.

Until 1945, the church services were held only once a month - the Fourth Sunday, Reverend O, M. Smith (1845-1940) was the first pastor to hold service every Sunday. However, he had additional employment on weekdays and, in effect, was really a part- time pastor. Likewise, the six successive pastors had additional employment on weekdays.

On July 16th , 1950, the Centennial observances were held. A special program, planned by the pastor, Eugene Howell, consisted of appropriate music, vocal and instrumental, the church history prepared and read by Mrs. J.W. Westmoreland, church historian; a sermon by J. Hubert Boyd; and talks by three former pastors; C.B. George; T.B. Randolph; and O. M. Smith. The celebrants enjoyed “dinner on the ground” between morning and afternoon sessions.

The frame building, moved to the plotted site in Woodlawn in 1877, continued in use until 1958. Early in the year, the congregation first worshipped in its modern sanctuary, constructed on the land donated by Mr. and Mrs. George C. Ives. This new and present location is beside Highway 59 about one and one-half miles south of the former location. Rev. Stanley Cox was the pastor during the planning and construction of the new building and gave a great deal of time to this project.

During this same year, a decade of spiritual and physical growth began under the pastorate of C. A. Maule, Jr. Major happenings during this period were:

1. Name change from Bethesda Baptist to Woodlawn Baptist.
2. Initiation of a salaried Minister of Music position.
3. Addition to the building which approximately doubled the size of the educational facilities.

Meanwhile, the community of Woodlawn, as it grew numerically during this period, developed a closeness which let to the establishment of a community club. Through efforts of this club, with cooperation and assistance from the church, the community won the “Texas Community Improvement Award” on July 25 th , 1965. Further recognition came to the church and community in 1966 when the pastor, Rev. Maule, received the “Rural Minister of the Year” award given by A&M College and the Progressive Farmer.

After the resignation of Rev. Maule in 1969, the Rev. Sistrunk became the first pastor who was “in the field” full time. By 1971, continued growth necessitated additional rooms, hence a fourteen-foot west extension on the sanctuary was added. This addition provided two classrooms, each fourteen feet square with accordion doors opening into the sanctuary, and a vestibule between the them. The façade of the vestibule was enhanced by decorative art glass above and beside the entrance doors. Shortly afterward, due to further numerical growth, a three-room, prefab portable building was bought and placed east of the building to provide needed classrooms.

Dr. Franklin Atkinson, serving as interim pastor from October 10, 1973 to May 5, 1974, let the church to establish a fund drive for the purchase or construction of a parsonage. Approximately three months later, the congregation voted to purchase a four-year old home (2050 square feet, with four bedrooms, two full baths, den, living room, and fireplace – located on a five-acre tract which is three lots south of the church building) for a parsonage.

On May 5, 1974, Rev. James Aldridge was called as pastor. His leadership in establishing committee and job descriptions gave the church a good foundation for growth. A ceremony was held on November 17, 1974, for the dedication of a Historical Marker awarded the church by the Texas Historical Society.

Dr. James Palmer served as interim pastor from the time of Rev. Aldridge's resignation (September, 1975) until March, 1976, when Rev, Eddie Singleton was called as pastor. Rev. Singleton returned to his former pastorate during May of 1976. A former pastor, Rev. C. A. Maule, served as interim until a call was issued by the church to Rev. W. Ed Smith in December, 1976.

A special vote of appreciation was given Dr. Norman Fromm upon his resignation as Director of Music and Education on June 26, 1976. Dr. Fromm had served in this capacity since January 6, 1971, and had been a pillar of strength and continuity during the time of interim and short-term pastors.

Under the direction of Rev. Ed Smith, the church continued to grow and strengthen itself organizationally. On March 15, 1978, a church constitution and articles of incorporation were adopted and sent to Austin for certification. Upon receipt of the Certificate of Incorporation, given certificate number 431884 and signed by the Texas Secretary of State, it was read to the congregation on June 14, 1978.

Other significant steps of growth were:

1. Final payment of note and release of lien against church building on April 24,1978.
2. Establishment of a bus fund on July 12, 1978, and vote to purchase a maxi-van and begin a bus ministry on August 16, 1978.
3. Decision to use back page of Baptist Standard once a month for a message tomembers.
4. Pay-off of loan for van on August 1, 1979.
5. Purchase and construction of a carport for van parking at the parsonage without debt.

Rev. Smith, assisted by paid staff members: Mr. Ray Stinson, Assistant to the Pastor, in charge of Music; Mrs. H. W. (Jan) Knox, Assistant to the Pastor, in charge of Youth; and Mrs. J. T. (Ursula) Kee, Pianist; and other volunteer committees planned the 130th Anniversary Celebration held on July 20, 1980, culminating a week- long summer revival. The 130th Anniversary Celebration was a successful event and was enjoyed by all who attended.

Bro. Smith served in many ways beyond the call of duty, such as rising early on Sunday mornings to drive the church van. His wife, Mary K., served as a teacher and as interim choir director. She also helped with secretarial work during the pastorate and, being a talented musician, relieved for and assisted the church pianist. Rev. Smith resigned in 1981.

A vote of appreciation was extended to Ursula (Sue) Kee upon her resignation as church pianist in August, 1981. She had served in this capacity for more than fifty years and recalls that an old- time pump Organ was used for such services when she began playing. Looking back over the years Sue holds dear, many precious memories were wrought from the wonderful privilege of serving the Lord in this position.

Dr. Douglas Thomas served as interim pastor from September, 1981, until Dr. Wayne Stephens was called as pastor in March, 1983. Under Dr. Stephens' direction, the church made rapid growth both in attendance and baptisms.

Other important steps included:

1. A new sanctuary containing a baptistry, several classrooms, two restrooms, and a balcony
2. Trees on the lot cut down making room for more parking space.
3. Homecoming and "Together We Build Day" on May 20, 1984, with gifts totaling $15,000. A number of pledges were made.
4. A revised bus ministry with addition of several buses.

Finishing of the new building including wiring, plumbing, carpeting, and paneling was done mostly by church members. Most of the pews were purchased and donated by members in fond memory of loved ones. Memorial plaques are on the donated pews.

The first service was held in the new sanctuary on September 28, 1986 There were 240 present on that special day, all rejoicing in a debt-free building.

Upon the resignation of Dr. Stephens in April of 1989, Dr. Harvey Lewis was called as interim pastor. The church did well under his capable guidance through November 29, 1989.

A dedication service for the new organ, which has added greatly to the music program, was held on November 19, 1989.

The church extended a call to Rev. Billy Buchanan on October 15, 1989. He and his wife, Mable, came on the field November 23, 1989, moving here from Tennessee. "Bro. Bill" preached his first sermon as pastor of Woodlawn Baptist on November 26, 1989.

Under his consecrated leadership, a spirit of sweet fellowship has developed and genuine Christian love and cooperation prevail.

Other notable steps during Bro. Bill's first year with the church include:

1. A Church Training program that has created much interest being organized on April 1, 1990.
2. One of the best Vacation Bible Schools in the History of the church was held June 18-22, 1990.
3. A Bible Story Period for young children just prior to the 11:00 o'clock worship service on Sunday mornings.

Since moving into the new building, the old sanctuary is now used as a fellowship hall and provides ample space for socials, etc. Many happy times of fun, fellowship and good food are enjoyed.

On February 4, 1990, "Dinner on the Ground" honored Bro. Glynn Granger for five years of faithful service as Music Director. Under his supervision, the church has an active choir and impressive musical programs on all special occasions.

Reverend Buchanan, assisted by a special committee: Nancy Westmoreland, chairperson; Glynn Granger, music; Ursula Kee, History: Connie Childers, food; Mamye Jordan; Mary Rutledge; and others planned the 140th Anniversary Celebration which was held on August 12, 1990.

During the years 1990 through 1995 the following spiritual activities were accomplished as well as several improvements to church properties:

Spiritual Activities:

• Scott Moore and James Carter ordained as Deacons and added to the Church 's Board of Deacons (March 17, 1991). Ordained men from Pope City Baptist and Harmony Baptist joined in this service.
• Raphael Craft was ordained as a Minister of the Gospel (April 28, 1991).  Ordained men from Zion Hill Baptist assisted in this service.
• Danny Warbington was ordained as a Minister of the Gospel (January 10, 1993). Ordained men from Zion Hill Baptist and Mulberry Springs Baptist joined Woodlawn Baptist in this service.
• New member Charles Whetstone, an active, ordained deacon for over forty years (Allendale Baptist Church of Shreveport, Louisiana) was added to the Board of Deacons (June 7, 1995).
• Fifth Sunday Sing-a-Longs were conducted for members and local guest singers (August, 2000)

Properties Improvements:

• New shingles on parsonage roof (February, 1991).
• New shingles on pitched roof portion of educational building (Spring, 1991).
• Completed addition of modesty panel for choir loft (0ctober 9, 1991).
• Installed and dedicated church bell donated by Mann Bender (May 17, 1992).
• Purchased a Kubota, forty-eight-inch, three-cylinder, water cooled diesel lawn tractor (May, 1992)
• Began construction of entrance vestibule for sanctuary (Spring, 1992)
• Replaced air conditioner for east portion of educational building (Summer, 1994) .
• New covering on flat portion of roof of educational building (March, 1995).
• A baby grand piano was installed in the auditorium (December, 1996)
• New sound system installed (September, 1998)
• Two hundred and fifty copies of the Baptist Hymnal were purchased along with 140 pew bibles

As of (July, 1995) , Bro. Buchanan was being assisted by a salaried staff (consisting of David Snow, Minister of Music; Michael Weltzheimer, Minister of Youth; Georgia Dyer, Organist; Mable Buchanan, Secretary; and Reagan Tanner, Custodian), the Board of Deacons (Roy McIntosh, Chairman; James Carter; Scott Moore; J. W. (Bill] Westmoreland, Jr.; and Charlie Whetstone) and numerous other volunteer officers, teachers and committees, including the Anniversary Celebration Committee (Charlie Whetstone, Kathy Sullivan, and Ruth McIntosh) established to plan the 145th Anniversary Celebration scheduled for July 30, 1995.  The celebration was a success and enjoyed by all.

Bro. Buchanan announced his retirement on Sunday, September 26, 2004. Rather than call an interim pastor, the Pastor Search Committee, chaired by Mrs. Beverly Birdwell, invited a local minister to preach each Sunday - some being possible candidates for consideration as pastor. Bro. Will Sherman was one of these ministers - he filled the pulpit on Sunday, January 23, 2005. Then, on February 20, 2005, the church voted by a vast majority to call Bro. Will as pastor.

Under Bro. Will's leadership, there were numerous physical improvements made to the church buildings and grounds. These were spread among several major physical improvements. These major improvements included: extensive repairs and facelifts to the parsonage (external and internal); installation of new metal roof over entire educational/fellowship building (approximately 6,500 sq. ft.); installation of acoustical ceiling with fluorescent lighting in auditorium; construction of a new 9,390 square foot, 27-space paved parking lot; and enlargement of the kitchen including the doubling of cabinets and cabinet-top work area and the addition of a deep freeze. These items were all accomplished without incurring any debt.

Not only did the church make progress physically during this period, but several actions taken and ministry aids added indicated or were brought about by spiritual growth. The church selected Ron Jones, ordained him and added him to the Board of Deacons; approved a secretarial position (20 hrs/wk) and hired Jan Knox; started a very successful 'Team-Kid' program for K-6th grade children on Wednesday nights and added a staff position to plan, prepare and serve Wednesday night meals; purchased software designed for keeping church records and through work of Bro. Will and the secretary, utilized this program to list active, non-active, and non-resident members as well as Sunday school enrolment and one-time visitors; and added James Gray to the staff as Music and Youth Director. Each of these actions seemed to cause an increase in attendance of the youth and of younger adult couples.

Also, during Bro. Will's period of leadership, he and the staff planned a very successful 160th Anniversary Celebration. They were able to schedule one of the early interim pastors, Dr. Franklin Atkinson, for the anniversary sermon and a Youth and Music Director, Kermit Tandberg, who served the church in the 1960's, to plan and conduct the worship services. Many old relationships were renewed and the day was enjoyed by all.

In November, 2011, the church received letters of resignation from Bro. Sherman, effective November 27, and from the secretary, Mrs. Jan Knox, effective December 8. Early in December, a Pastor Search Committee was selected with the following members: David Holt, Larry Foster, Ronald Jones, Billy Truehitt and Bill Westmoreland. Steve Capehart and Billy Hill were selected as alternates. In December, 2011, Bro. Morris Brock was called as Interim Pastor. The Music and Youth Director, James Gray, and his wife, Christi Gray, accepted additional duties during this period since the Personnel Committee had no viable candidates.

Tragedy struck on Wednesday night, February 22, 2012, as fire was reported in the Educational/Fellowship Building. The fire was reported around 11:00 pm but by the time the Woodlawn Volunteer Fire Department arrived at 11:20 p.m., the building was completely engulfed with flames and therefore was a total loss. Fire departments from several surrounding departments responded and through joint efforts of Woodlawn and these other volunteers the auditorium building was saved and all regular services have been continued in this building. The Interim Pastor, Bro. Morris Brock, and the Music & Youth Director, James Gray, and James' wife, Christi, have been extremely helpful in planning and doing what is necessary to keep all church activities going. By mid-July, all asbestos contamination, debris and remnants of burned building have been removed and the site has been prepared for the construction of a new building. The New Building Committee, consisting of Don Holt, Billy Hill, Lowell Hill, Butch Graves, Barbara Hudson, Cindy Allen and Christi Gray, are currently reviewing preliminary plans for a replacement building which will have a metal exterior and will be slightly larger than the old building.

To be continued...

HISTORICAL NOTES

THIRTEEN CHARTER MEMBERS AND THEIR PREVIOUS CHURCH AFFILIATIONS

Elder Jessea Witt – Moderator

Pastors