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In 1926 the first church building was sold and moved. Construction
was begun on a brick structure which was completed in 1927. The
church burned on January 10, 1940, destroying most of its contents.
All church records were lost in that fire.
The church built anew at the intersection of Dearing and Avenue
D to replace the burned structure. In 1940, with a vision for the
future, the property on Pure-Atlantic Road (now know as Magnolia
Avenue) was purchased for the sum of $3,400. This is the present
location of the church.
In 1953 Mr. Maurice E. Walmer of Beaumont completed the plans for
the present edifice and construction began in 1954. Many hours of
labor were donated by members of the church and the cost of construction
was financed by special offerings, love gifts, and the selling of
Broadway Bonds. The first service in the beautiful new building
located on Magnolia Avenue was held June 30, 1957, with a dinner
on the grounds following.
The building has undergone several remodeling programs. The latest,
done during the 1990's, involved updating, refurbishing and installing
new A/C and heating systems. The church was again blessed by its
members doing the bulk of the work.
First Baptist Church of Port Neches, through the grace of our Lord,
continues to grow in number and in spirit. The people who make up
the body of First Baptist Church realize that they are disciples
with the presence of Christ - persons who have responded to God's
redemptive action and are committed to His task. Such are the people
who have constituted the faithful, commited membership of this church.
Reflecting back over the past 91 years fills us with
a realization that God has truly blessed His Church. Our future
is bright because the physical and spiritual resources are present.
The success of the future relies on each member doing his best.
Surely, "Your eyes have seen what the
Lord has done..." Deuteronomy 4:3a (NASB)
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