The year was 1958. Dwight D. Eisenhower was president. Gas could be purchased for 25 cents per gallon. Packard automobiles ceased production and closed its doors, and Elvis Presley was inducted into the US Army.
In January of 1958, the journey began as 36 charter members constituted Calvary Baptist Church. The first temporary meeting place was the old Dawson National Guard Armory behind the old Terrell High School.
As they met in the old armory, building, finance, and other committees were formed to put feet beneath this new congregation. On January 11, 1958, groundbreaking was held on land donated to the church by Mr. Claude Lawrence. This property on West Lee Street is still home to Calvary Baptist Church. A few days later on January 15, construction began on a permanent structure to serve as the auditorium for Calvary Baptist Church. A “Cornerstone Laying Service” was held on January 17, 1958.
Many of the members donated time, labor, and materials towards this construction project. It was noted in the church’s history that many of the ladies met to help paint the inside of the church as it neared completion. The original interior color was “green mist.”
Through much hard work, dedication, and sacrifice from the members, construction of Calvary Baptist Church was finished by March of that same year. March 30, 1958, was the official dedication day for Calvary Baptist Church.
June of 1959 saw the first of many Vacation Bible Schools at Calvary Baptist Church. This has always been a highlight for our church, as well as the community around us. VBS at Calvary is always outstanding and outreaching. Every year, we have newer generations of VBS students whose parents at some point in their young life attended a Calvary VBS. There is nothing better than to see a church full of children learning about our Lord and Savior.
By September of 1960, Calvary Baptist Church had paid the bank note in full. The 60’s also saw the addition of an educational wing to Calvary Baptist Church. The church also added one of the newer conveniences of that day as telephone lines were installed in the church. A parsonage was built, a steeple added to the church, and minor renovations were undertaken during this decade as well.
Through the years, Calvary Baptist Church has undergone various updates and renovations as technology and decorum changed. Members have come, and some members have moved away or been called home to glory. Much has changed since January of 1958, but one thing remains constant. God has not changed, and He remains faithful to all of us today just as much as in the beginning of our church. Calvary Baptist Church exists to glorify and honor God in all that we do.
We feel that we have just begun our journey, and our best days are before us. We hope and pray that if you are searching for a home, you will come and get to know us. Join our family, and let us walk this journey together.
