The Oldest Church In Mississippi Dates Back To The 1700s And You Need To See It

Located in the heart of the Bible belt, it’s not surprising that Mississippi is full of beautiful churches. And while many of the state’s churches were built in recent years, there are nearly just as many that date back centuries. In fact, there’s one that dates all the way back to the late 1700s. Take a look:

Woodville, which is located in the southwest corner of the state, is one of the oldest towns in Mississippi.

Despite its small size, Woodville is home to several well preserved churches from the past, including the state’s oldest – Woodville Baptist Church.

Neo-classical in style, the red brick church features traditional white columns and a bell tower.

Though not completed until 1809, construction on the church began in 1798, making it the oldest church building in Mississippi. It’s also one of the state’s oldest congregations.

Aside from its age, the church is significant in another way – it was among the first churches in the Magnolia State to be integrated.

Great care has been taken to preserve the historic church. Over the years, only one update has been made, and that was the addition of a stained glass window.

In recent years, the church became part of an exhibit designed by the Mississippi Baptist Historical Commission.

Several other area churches are included in the exhibit, making for a great road trip. Click here to learn more.

If you do visit the church, don't forget to check out Woodville’s other notable churches, such as St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (pictured), St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, and Woodville Methodist Church.

Woodville Baptist Church is located at 264 Natchez St. S, Woodville, MS 39669. For more information, call (601) 888-3613. You can also visit the church’s website or Facebook page.

So, ever visited this historic church? Know of another noteworthy church from yesteryear? Tell us in the comments section.

This isn’t the only Mississippi church that belongs on your bucket list. Click here to read about another.