Our history

Founding & Early Years
First Bethany Baptist Church was established in 1808 when residents of the Coffeetown and Hardlabor Creek communities came together to build a meeting house at a location central to both groups. This early congregation formed one of the earliest Baptist churches in the region and later became part of the Edgefield Baptist Association. 

Growth and Relocation
Originally located on the road between Edgefield Court House and Abbeville, the church sold that first building in 1850. A new sanctuary was constructed at Shinburg Muster Ground near Longmire’s Post Office on land donated by a member of the congregation. That site, along U.S. Highway 378 east of McCormick, has remained the church’s home ever since. 

Continuity and Legacy
Over the years, First Bethany Baptist has continued its ministry in the McCormick area, serving its congregation and community through worship, fellowship, and service. In 2009 it celebrated its bicentennial, marking 200 years of continuous Christian witness and ministry. 

Today
The church remains active at 853 U.S. Highway 378 E, offering regular worship services and activities for its members and visitors