Freeport United Baptist Church

Freeport United Baptist Church

Freeport United Baptist Church

Annapolis- Digby

Nova Scotia

Digby

Long Island, N.S.

Active

Constructed 1839

As early as 1834, 21 members were dismissed from the Westport Church, on Briar Island, to begin the organization of a church on Long Island. This became known as the Freeport Baptist Church, which was led initially by Elder Stronach. Early church meetings were held in the homes of members until 1839 when the first church structure was built. It was a square 30x30 structure built directly in front of the Hilltop cemetery. Mr. Pack was the builder, and this structure seated 35 people with a gallery that accommodated 24 more. After the present structure was completed in 1861, the old meetinghouse was drug down over the hill by oxen and rollers and placed at the rear of the sanctuary of the current structure. It is used as a vestry today. The main part of the church still has its original windows which add to its Gothic style of architecture. The builder was Daniel Bailey with the help of the community and the land was granted to the trustees of the church from James E. Balcom. In 1900 the steeple was remodeled and a paneled ceiling, choir loft, and pulpit platform were added. In 1905 the vestry was expanded by 20 feet to its current dimensions.