In 1830, a large Union Church was built in Waynesville, Ga., Wayne County, at that time. There were four denominations involved; Presbyterian, Episcopal, Methodist, and Baptists. Each denomination would have services once a month, and on fifth Sundays all would combine together.
Moses Harris and John Burnett were the Trustees for the Baptist Church (deed recorded July 7, 1831, Wayne County records). Soon thereafter the church was turned completely over to the Baptists.
In 1850-1860, the Church moved to the Waynesville Cemetery on Monticello Ridge in Waynesville Community. It stayed at this location until 1900 when the Waynesville Missionary Baptist Church was built on Lot #35, according to survey of E.A. Penniman, C.S. of Glynn County, September 1897. The Waynesville Missionary Baptist Church remained at that location until Christmas of 1955 when it moved to the present location on U. S. Highway 82.
Some of the Charter members of the Baptist Church were Burney, Drury, Gibson, Harrison, Jacobs, and Robinson. Many of their offspring are still leaders of the present church. Some of the Preachers were Rev. C. D. Ogg, Rev. Holland, Rev. Milton McCool, and others. Rev. Andrew Milton McCool was born April 1, 1870 at Waynesville, Ga., He preached at many churches. He lived at Hoboken when he died.
The Revivals were wonderful, everyone for miles around attended. Following the Revival was Homecoming. What a day! Friends and relatives by the dozens came and everyone brought a picnic basket. The table was built outside under the majestic mossy oak trees. It was about the length of the Church. Each lady brought a tablecloth and spread their food. Some of the best food I have ever tasted came off of that table.
Our present Church is on Highway 82 (previously 84). The location was the former ball field. Many games were played there. It was a joyful day when we moved into the new building at Christmas of 1955. I have attended three building dedications since then. The Social Hall, the Upstairs, and recently we added six Sunday School rooms, a fourth bathroom, and a new entrance. Our next project is to extend the auditorium.
SOURCE OF INFORMATION: Louise Drury Jones, P. O. Box 2, Waynesville, Ga., 31566