Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church Preservation Society

The Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church was established in 1824 as one of the oldest churches in Tyrrell County.  It was originally called Sound Side Church and located there.  In 1844 James Swain donated one acre of land located on Riders Creek south of Columbia NC "for the purpose of building a house for Divine service".  By 1845 the "Creek Bethlehem Church" congregation was active in their new building. 

The church building has changed little over the years.  There are two front doors, reflecting a time when men and women had to enter the church separately and sit on separate sides.  The interior has beautiful oak flooring and paneling, but retains its "primitive" heritage with a simple altar and plain rows of pews.  Indoor bathrooms, electric lights and ceiling fans were added but otherwise a worship service today would appear much like one from over 150 years ago.

The earliest church record book was lost, but the 2nd book remains covering 1856 to 1925.  William Reynolds Jr. was pastor from 1852 until his death in 1878.  The last remaining church member, Nellie Barnes, died in 2000.  It was her wish to preserve the church building.

The Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church Preservation Society was formed in 1997 as a non-profit group to preserve the historic building and records. 

Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church Preservation Society was organized to:

·        PRESERVE the only known remaining Primitive Baptist meeting house in Tyrrell Co., NC

·        PUBLISH any available church records known to exist

·        HOLD annual meetings for preservation business - Third Sunday in May

·        SPONSOR annual commemorative Primitive Baptist preaching service on the premises -                           Second Sunday in September

·        ENSURE its rich heritage will be maintained for future generations

The Society meets annually at the church (147 Newlands Road) at 1:30 p.m. on the third Sunday in May.    All are welcome.