From a Grove to a Cornerstone: The History of First Baptist Church Valparaiso

If you walk through the streets of Valparaiso today, it’s easy to forget that this bustling city was once a rugged frontier settlement known as "Portersville." But one local institution has witnessed nearly the entire evolution of our community: First Baptist Church.

With roots stretching back to 1837—before Valparaiso even had its current name—the church isn't just a place of worship; it is a living piece of Porter County history.

The Gathering in the Grove (1837)

The story begins not in a building, but in the open air. In the spring of 1836, a pioneer minister named Rev. Alpheus French held a preaching service in a grove at Blachly’s Corners in Union Township. About 25 settlers gathered under the trees for what is credited as the first meeting held by a Baptist minister in the county.

A year later, on June 10, 1837, Rev. French formally organized the church with just 12 founding members. Among these intrepid pioneers were John and Drusilla Bartholomew, Edmond and Charity Billings, and Warner and Adelia Pierce. They met in homes and schoolhouses, a "church without walls" united by faith and the challenge of frontier life.

Finding a Name and a Home

By February 8, 1840, the congregation officially adopted the name "First Baptist Church of Valparaiso." As the town grew, so did the need for a permanent sanctuary.

• The First Building (1853): Under the leadership of Rev. Alexander Nickerson, the congregation dedicated their first proper church building on March 13, 1853. It was a modest structure erected for $2,200—a significant sum for the time.

• The Brick Church (1881): By the late 19th century, the congregation had outgrown its original home. On November 13, 1881, they dedicated a striking new brick building at the northwest corner of Lafayette and Chicago Streets. Built in the shape of a Greek cross, it cost $6,100 and could seat 600 people, symbolizing the church's established place in the heart of the city.

A Legacy That Endures

Over the last 188 years, First Baptist Church has moved locations to meet the needs of a modern congregation, eventually settling into its current home on Campbell Street.

While the architecture has changed, the lineage remains unbroken. From twelve pioneers gathering in a grove to the vibrant community of today, First Baptist Church stands as a testament to the endurance of faith in Valparaiso.