OUR HISTORY

Brandywine Baptist Church, established in 1692, stands at the edge of the Brandywine Battlefield.  In many ways it reflects the history of our nation.   During the Battle of Brandywine in the Revolutionary War, it was the site of General George Washington’s encampment one night, and Hessian troops the next.

The church, the oldest continuously operating Baptist church west of Philadelphia. was established in 1692 with members meeting in homes.  In 1715 the congregation was formally organized as Brandywine Baptist Church with 15 original members.

A "substantial hewed-log house" was built in 1718, and became the congregation's first established meeting house. This was followed in 1719 by presentation of a deed for the land on which the church building stood, the very site of the present building.

The church, which included nearly all Baptists in the state west of Philadelphia, and a number from Delaware, grew to 88 members on the rolls by 1765.

In 1777 the Battle of Brandywine was fought in close proximity to the church, with at least two members associated with General Washington's forces. Generals Washington and Lafayette set up their headquarters in the farmhouses immediately adjacent to the church.

In 1808 the original log structure was replaced by a new stone building to accommodate increased membership. In 1810, 92 members were commissioned to establish a sister church, and other sister churches were established and nurtured over the years.  

The present stone church building was erected in 1869.  In 2022 the fellowship hall was remodeled to encourage community among believers. This hall was previously named Heyburn Hall due to the overwhelming support and faithfulness of the Heyburn family. After the remodeling, the hall was christened Heritage Hall to reflect the historic and spiritual heritage of the church.  

Brandywine Baptist Church takes joy in its part in the history of the United States of America.  More importantly, we look back with gratitude for God’s guidance on our spiritual forebears, and forward as we seek to continue to fulfill The Great Commission:    

Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. 

Matthew 28:19-20a  (NKJV)