The Historic First Baptist Church of Williamsburg

About this church

The Historic First Baptist Church of Williamsburg worships at 11 a.m. Sunday at 727 West Scotland Street, with an online service for people unable to attend. Sunday School begins at 9:45 on Zoom. The church also offers Sunday School for children from prekindergarten through twelfth grade and nursery care for infants and toddlers, though families should confirm which classes are meeting in person. Worship combines Scripture, preaching, prayer, music, praise, and fellowship in a multigenerational Baptist congregation.

Organized in 1776 by enslaved and free Black worshipers seeking freedom to worship, First Baptist carries one of Williamsburg's most significant living church histories. Early gatherings took place at Green Spring Plantation and later at Raccoon Chase and a Nassau Street carriage house. The congregation became known as the African Baptist Church, adopted its current name in 1863, and moved to the Scotland Street building in 1956. Today it remains both a worshiping community and a place where descendants, families, students, and visitors can learn this history. Guided “Legacy of Faith and Freedom” tours explain the sanctuary, sacred memory, and continuing story, while outreach partnerships support neighbors beyond the building. A first-time guest can attend 11 a.m. worship or preview the livestream. Historic tours require a separate request and should not be assumed to begin immediately after every Sunday service.

Researched from the church’s official website and reviewed August 26, 2026. Sources: Official church overview, current Sunday worship and visitor welcome · Official homepage, Sunday School time and 250th-anniversary identity · Official history page, 1776 roots, Black sacred history, and church locations · Official tour page, Legacy of Faith and Freedom visitor experience

Service times

Confirm current times directly with the church before visiting.

Location