The History of Carlton Baptist Church

Carlton Baptist Church was founded in 1823. The church members held their services in a church built on Burton Road, near to where the Carlton Shopping precinct stands.

In the 1890’s, the church membership had grown to such a level that the church premises were too small for the size of the regular congregation, so plans were put in place to build a larger building. A plot of land was purchased on Burton Road about 200 metres from the original church, so that a new and larger church building could be built. The site was not totally ideal as it was marsh land and had to be drained before building work could commence. The building work did commence, and the Stone Laying ceremony was carried out by Mr. John Godfrey on Easter Monday, 16th April 1900. Mr. Godfrey was a Methodist gentleman who was held in high regard by people, not only in Carlton, but also throughout the County and beyond. The new church building was completed using the money from the sale of the old church building, donations from the public and appropriate loans.

The church members suffered a blow when, in the early 1960’s, the church suffered severe damage due to mining subsidence. Some of the internal walls had cracks so wide that you could put your fist through them. The damage was so severe and extensive that it was decided that it would not be possible to re-build it to its original design. For 3 years, we had to hold our services in the church hall at the back of the church, which fortunately had not suffered any severe damage. The decision was made to demolish the front half of the church building and rebuild it to a more modern design as it is now. Fortunately, the Coal Board accepted responsibility for the damage, and paid for the re-building work.

The re-built church was opened and dedicated on the 26th Augst 1967, much to the delight of everyone, and we have continued in worship in the church to the present day. This year we celebrate our 200th Anniversary of the founding of Carlton Baptist Church.