The Journal-Record - Bicentennial Edition Thursday, July 1, 1976 Section B, Page 6 THE HISTORY OF MT. OLIVE FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH The history of the Mount Olive Free Will Baptist Church dates back to the year 1882, thus giving her almost a century of spiritual ministry in this community. It is determined that at least eight people made u the charter membership of the church. they were Rev. and Mrs. W. A. NELSON, Mr. and Mrs. James BURLESON, Mr. and Mrs. G. W. WESTBROOKS, and Mr. and Mrs. A. J. WESTBROOKS. Rev. W. A. NELSON served as the first pastor of the new organization. Four buildings have housed the congregation through the ninety-two years of history. The first building was erected of wood in 1882, on land donated by A. J. WESTBROOKS. This building was later replaced by another frame building. In 1952, a brick structure, with a fell basement was erected. (This building is presently used as the educational building.) In the late sixties, the present sanctuary was erected under the pastoral leadership of Rev. James PITTMAN. In the early sixities(sic), under the leadership of Rev. Billy Ray SMITH, a three bedroom parsonage was added to the church property. The entire church is free of indebtedness, with the exception of a small amount owed on recent inprovements(sic). Ministers have gone forth from the Mount Olive Church, to serve in their respective fields. Rev. Dave FRANKS is presently serving as Missionary to Brazil. (His wife and children are with him on the mission field.) A number of pastors have served during the long history of this church, whose service and influence is highly esteemed. The present pastor, Reverend Woodrow MATTHEWS, assumed the pastorate in February, 1973. This church is affiliated with the National Association of Free Will Baptist - supports the denomination work, and endeavors to be evangelistic in the total church programs.