Salem Baptist Church (1843-Present)

The first Salem Baptist Church. This picture is reportedly over 100 years old. Notice the stones in the cemetery to the right.

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Membership List through 1883

Old Salem cemetery transcriptions

Salem Baptist Church was organized July14, 1843 with 17 charter members. McCajah Duncan was the first pastor. The first church building was of log construction and stood where the Old Salem cemetery is now located. Record books show the family of Reuben Jobe, Polly Beard and John W Beard deeded land for the purpose of building a church. This building served as the first meeting place of the County Court when Moniteau became a county in February, 1845.

In January, 1879, the members voted to build a new church on a tract of land donated by Anderson Hodge. This land is 6 miles northeast of California on what is now Highway 87. A frame structure (38 x 44 x 14 ft) was completed at a cost of $861.98. This building was dedicated in June 1879. In 1957 a full basement was put under the church and provided more class rooms and kitchen facilities.

The church building was destroyed by fire of unknown origin on November 6, 1969. On November 12, the members voted to build on the same site. The new church was completed at a cost of $15,000 and was 32 x 44 feet with a full basement. A dedication service for this building was held October 25, 1970.

In 1984 another addition was added to the church. This provided education space which was used for class rooms and a nursery and space for restrooms and recreation facilities. On October 9, 1988 the new sanctuary was dedicated. A baptistery was installed, new carpeting, pews, a pastor's study and a church library were added.

Charter members July 14, 1843:

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Last modified: December 22, 2012