September, 2018 On October 18th of this year Standing Springs Baptist Church in Simpsonville, SC will be 200 years old. Standing Springs was started as an “arm” of Fork Shoals Baptist Church. It was organized on September 18, 1818 and the first service was held on October 18, 1818.
Charter Members
There were 10 charter members. Arguless, Elizabeth and Rachel Henderson, William Mayhall, Rhonda Moore, Thomas, Delila and James Richardson and Christopher and Hannah Robbins.
The church met in the home of Mr. James Cox for over a year. He gave the church three acres of land and the first building was erected in 1819. In 1837 a new building was constructed further from the road. This building has been remodeled many times over the years but the footings and beams are still in use today. The church facilities are in the same location but the acreage has grown to over 42 acres with several buildings.
Standing Springs is the parent church of Sandy Springs Baptist Church in Pelzer and Unity Baptist Church in Simpsonville. Sandy Springs Baptist Church began in 1832 with 22 members from Standing Springs. Unity Baptist Church began in 1900 with 42 members from Standing Springs. Over the years men of God have stood in the pulpit and preached the gospel. In the early years men from Furman University filled the pulpit, including James C. Furman the university’s first President.
Over the years many young men and women have been called out of Standing Springs into full time Christian service. Standing Springs has reached across the nation and into several foreign countries.
When the church was first established they made the following statement: This church was organized for the purpose of propagating the gospel in preaching and teaching. This is still the purpose of the church 200 years later in 2018. We truly believe that God in His mercy and grace continues to have great plans for Standing Springs.
A history of the church has been developed and printed. This book is available for purchase at the church office for a minimum donation of $6.00. Office hours are Monday through Thursday 8 A.M. until 5 P.M. A copy can be purchased on line and mailed for $10.00. An order form is available on the church’s web site.
In connection with the Bicentennial Celebration several events are planned. All members, former members and friends, as well as the public, are welcome and encouraged to join us for all of the events.
An Old Timey Day service will be held on September 30. This will be a somewhat normal service but structured toward an 1800’s period style. Members are planning to dress in 1800’s period attire. After the service the grounds will be available for a picnic lunch.
A historical marker has been purchased through the state. An outdoor dedication service is planned for October 7 immediately after the regular church service.
On Saturday, October 13 there will be a time for renewing old friendships, sharing of memorabilia and old memories beginning at 10 A.M. A BBQ lunch will be served at noon. This is a free meal but sign up is required. A person can do this by calling the church office at 864-963-3453 or sign up on line at the church’s web site. Last day to sign up is Friday, October 5. Following the meal there will be a praise and worship service at 1:30 P.M. Child care will be provided for this service.
On Sunday, October 14 a homecoming service will be held. This will begin at 10 A.M. with preaching and music. Many special guests will be in attendance; local and state politicians and representatives from the Baptist Associations will be present. A covered dish meal will follow and everyone is asked to bring a couple of dishes. Paper products and drinks will be provided.
On Thursday, October 18 a special 200 Year praise and worship service will be held. This service will begin at 6:30 P.M.
The spring after which the church is named is a great place to visit. The path to it is behind the church and is well marked. It can be seen at any time. In addition, a path has been cleared to the old baptistry and can be accessed from the path to the spring.
For further details of the events please see the church’s website at standingsprings.org.
