When mission-minded individuals from Alabama set out to spread the gospel to the natives of Northwest Florida in the early 19th century, Pensacola was their primary destination. A long-established population center, Pensacola was known for, among other things, its “dire need for preaching.” Because seaports have a variety of cultural lifestyles imported from around the world and because exotic spirits of both the drinking and emotional variety were abundant invading influences, the area became a mission field for Alabama Baptists.
Today, the First Baptist Church of Pensacola is grateful for their efforts. In May of 1847, near Escambia Bay and what is now Seville Square, a small group of local citizens with Alabama preachers Alexander Travis and Joseph Mitchell founded First Baptist. Some forty-eight years later, the church was relocated to the current site on Palafox Street.
Through the many years since, the church has—as have our city and our nation—endured and survived storms, wars, epidemics, economic hardships and other hindrances. While a myriad of challenges have come our way, we continue to be faithful to God’s Word and to his purpose for us and we thank God for his goodness to us.
We invite anyone seeking to serve the Lord to become a part of the mission and the historical story that is the First Baptist Church of Pensacola.
Today, the First Baptist Church of Pensacola is grateful for their efforts. In May of 1847, near Escambia Bay and what is now Seville Square, a small group of local citizens with Alabama preachers Alexander Travis and Joseph Mitchell founded First Baptist. Some forty-eight years later, the church was relocated to the current site on Palafox Street.
Through the many years since, the church has—as have our city and our nation—endured and survived storms, wars, epidemics, economic hardships and other hindrances. While a myriad of challenges have come our way, we continue to be faithful to God’s Word and to his purpose for us and we thank God for his goodness to us.
We invite anyone seeking to serve the Lord to become a part of the mission and the historical story that is the First Baptist Church of Pensacola.
Entitled On the Bay-On the Hill, a book documenting the church’s history was published in 1987. Anyone looking to learn more about our founding and past, is welcome to check out a book from the Church Library or purchase a hard-cover copy in the church office.