Fork Shoals Baptist Church, Pelzer, will celebrate its 235th anniversary April 17.

According to information provided by the church, Fork Shoals is the oldest congregation in Greenville Baptist Association. It was originally located in a brush arbor at the juncture of Reedy River and Big Creek between 1777 and 1780. A log and earthen clay structure was the first permanent house of worship. In 1836, a frame building was built. In 1888, the church building was relocated away from the “big rock,” renovated, and expanded to its current location. In 1961, a new sanctuary and steeple were built.

Fork Shoals, circa 1860.

In 1860, Fork Shoals Baptist Church withdrew from Reedy River Association to join other churches as a charter member in forming Greenville Baptist Association. Fork Shoals is the mother church to several other congregations.

A homecoming service will begin at 10:45 a.m. Jay Howard is pastor of Fork Shoals.