First Baptist Church began February 13, 1869 with nine charter members. The first property was located at the southwest corner of Houston and Washington Street.

The church relocated on St. Mary's Street and built a white frame building in 1886. This facility served the church until it was torn down in 1935, and a new church plant was built on the same location.

Through the years several members have gone to the mission fields while others were called to serve as ministers of churches.

The emphasis of missions has always been strong in the congregation. Churches established locally were Primera Iglesia Bautista, Tuleta, Calvary, New Life, and El Buen Pastor. Assistance was also given to establish a church in Four Corners, Montana, and Mankota, Minnesota.

Facilities and property for parking and expansion have been added periodically. A new auditorium was built in 1957. Additional educational facilities were built in 1949 and 1960 and the Christian Activities Center was completed in 1978. In 1987 a two story educational building was constructed where the original church was located. The main auditorium was remodeled in 1994.

The church today continues its historic emphasis on: (1) providing facilities and organizations for the spiritual growth of its members and ministering to the community, and (2) missions outreach through praying, giving, and members being personally involved in mission activities.