A BRIEF HISTORY

Organized in April 1867, Salem Baptist Church began in homes of a few faithful believers until a one room log church was built in 1874. The original church building was located near the site of the present building and also doubled as a school, with some members of the original congregation leaving in 1890 to form a neighboring church: called New Union today. 

Rev. John Q Shaver, the founder and first pastor of Salem Baptist Church, gave the land for the first structure to be built on. Ninety years later, the original building had been replaced by a new space that included a multi-purpose fellowship hall, kitchen, and baptistry. In 1982, the church was given its brick facade which remains today. 

At the turn of the 21st century, a multi-purpose Outreach building was constructed on the church grounds to serve the needs of both the congregation and community. This upgrade included a gymnasium, kitchen, restrooms, and an upper level with additional classrooms and office spaces. In the time since the building was first erected, it has become a central hub for fellowship events, church meals, and other gatherings—providing plenty of room to grow as we continue to serve together.

In 2005, Pastor Barry Walls was called to lead the church, bringing faithful preaching and pastoral care that continues to shape the congregation today.