West Point Baptist Church
Galveston, Galveston County, Texas
Marker Inscription
First called West Point Free Mission Baptist Church, this congregation traces its history to 1870, although written documentation does not exist until 1882. The Rev. G. R. Cushenberry served as first pastor. The congregation met for worship at a variety of locations before this site was acquired in 1900. A small one-room sanctuary was built and served the church until it was razed to make room for a larger two-story structure. With leadership from the Rev. John C. Calhoun, the cornerstone was laid on July 4, 1921, and the new building was completed. Throughout its history, West Point Baptist Church has placed an emphasis on community service. A number of church members became ministers and served congregations here and in other cities. West Point clergy and members have provided leadership to such community groups as Boy Scouts and the Galveston County Community Action Council. They have administered assistance programs for people seeking employment, disabled by illness or injury, or undergoing a period of bereavement. West Point Baptist Church remains an important part of the community as it continues to uphold the ideals and commitment of its founders.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
This Galveston congregation traces its roots to 1870, when it was first known as the West Point Free Mission Baptist Church under its founding pastor. After worshiping in a variety of places, the members acquired this site in 1900, built a small sanctuary, and in 1921 laid the cornerstone of a larger two-story building on Independence Day. Across its history the church has emphasized community service, sending members into the ministry and leading groups from the Boy Scouts to a county community action council.
Why it matters
Founded just after emancipation, West Point Baptist reflects the central role Black churches played as engines of faith, leadership, and community uplift in the post-Civil War South.
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Related people
- · Rev. G. R. Cushenberry
- · Rev. John C. Calhoun
Themes & tags
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