FIRST BAPTIST

ABOUT 1905 a mission was formed at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Robinson, who at that time lived on Chestnut Street, Nutley.

After a year, due to the growing of the Mission, they were permitted to have their meeting at the Town Hall.

Services were held there until 1907 when the Church was built at 13-15 Harrison Street, under the name of Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church. The Reverend Fitzgerald became the first pastor. He was followed by Reverend Norman Olphin; then the Reverend George B. Riley became pastor in 1936 and the name was changed to the First Baptist Church. He served until his death. He was followed by Reverend J. J. Napier who then served eight years. The present pastor who was elected July 24, 1960, is Reverend Laurence Roberts.

The Trustee Board is Marcus Sirmons, Chairman; William Wheeler, Secretary; Ollie Clark, Treasurer; Wisdom Malloy and J. W. Thompson. The Deacons are Samuel Evans and William Perry, Chairman.