The Historic First Baptist Church of Cheswold was organized in January 1953 as a mission and became a Church in July 1953. They initially worshipped in a building on Road 42 leading from Cheswold to Kenton, Delaware until the property on Rose Bowl Road was purchased. Through continuous prayer, on October 17th, 1954 they moved into what we know as The Historic First Baptist Church of Cheswold, 291 Rose Bowl Road, Dover, Delaware 19901. Their church membership began with 7 individuals who worshipped in the lower level prior to the erection of an official church structure. Through continuous prayers and efforts, a loan was secured from the Farmer’s Bank of the State of Delaware to erect the church structure, which was completed on April 14th, 1959. By God's grace, a mortgage Burning Service for this structure was held on Saturday, August 31st, 1963. 

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• July 1953 to October 1962, Reverend Roland Coker lead as Servant Leader

• November 1962 to November 1965, Reverend Dr. J. Gerald Harvey was Pastor.

• January 1966 until his death in July 1968, Reverend William D. Brown served as Pastor.

• July 1968 to September 1969, Reverend Clarence Henderson served as Pastor.

• November 1969 to December 1970, Reverend Walter Hackett served as Pastor.

• March 1971 to May 1973, Reverend Clifton V. Holmes served as Pastor.

• August 1973 to January 1990, Reverend Calvin Jones served as Pastor and specialized in fundraising

 

Even while experiencing fluctuations in membership, the church was noted for its community involvement and for readily extending a helping hand wherever needed. Moreover, the Church had an active prison ministry for a number of years. In fact, First Baptist Church of Cheswold served as “HOME” for the members of the New Hope Choir of the Delaware Correctional Center. This choir had the unique national distinction of being the FIRST to enter churches, schools, and auditoriums throughout the state, benefiting many churches. Of particular significance were the gospel marathons, 12 hours of continuous service, Pennsylvania Day {sponsored by Sister Frances Ruiz Mena and Sister Thelma Driggus}, Hope Family and Friends Day, and programs initiated by the Willing Workers. Furthermore the services for the Mortgage Burning for the additionally purchased land were held during the 28th Church Anniversary of the on July 12th, 1981. Other projects launched during this period included the structural extension, furnishing of Choir and Trustee rooms, upgrading the kitchen and dining area, installing the baptismal pool, and purchasing a second organ.

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• February 1991 to 2010, Reverend Willie L. Savage served as Pastor

• June 2010 to January 2016, Reverend Philemon Hill served as Pastor greatly evangelizing the community 

• March 2016 to February 2023, Reverend Parris Williams served as Pastor

• April 2024 to - Rev. Dr. J. Arthur Poulson Sr. serves as Pastor specializing in prayer and church administration.

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• Under Reverend Willie L. Savage's tenure, membership grew, the Education Program expanded, and several

• notable purchases were made, including the pulpit and choir furniture and a 15-passenger van to transport our membership. 

 

During Reverend Philemon Hill's tenure, his efforts, energy, and enthusiasm greatly led the church in evangelizing the neighboring community. 

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Praise the Lord; as of April 28th, 2024, The Historic First Baptist Church of Cheswold celebrated its 70th Church Anniversary by God’s Grace and mercy. He has certainly kept us as we stood praising and trusting in Him and His Word.

 

To God be the Glory; for “ALL” the things He has done here at The Historic First Baptist Church of Cheswold!.