We are the
Little Church with a Big Heart
“Our History”
The history of Shell Banks Baptist Church
as told from the recollections of our former
church historian, Mrs. Linnie Galloway.
Historic Shell Banks Baptist Church rests near the location of the
first Indian village visited by a while man in America.
This occurred in 1530, 81 years before the pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock.
There was a tremendous pile of oyster shells (probably ceremonial) left by the Indians,
thus Shell Banks Baptist Church was built and named.
The church arose from humble beginnings with a dirt floor and walls constructed of logs.
In the early 1800’s missionaries Alexander Travis, John Mitchell and Thomas Nelson, at salaries of fifty cents a day helped get our start.
We were formally established in 1858 by Reverand A.B. Couch.
In 1875 Hans Peter Hanson, a native of Denmark, became pastor.
He led our congregation for over 25 years.
He, his wife, and family members are buried in the Shell Banks Cemetery.
Hurricanes in 1916 and 1926 destroyed the buildings,
but with the Lords help and guidance they were rebuilt. The Lord’s work must go on.
This is a special place, a place where God-fearing people come to worship and live.
Our sandy white beaches, crystal-like waters and people who genuinely love the Lord beckons all to come and be a part of the family of God and serve each other and our community.
“Nothin’ fancy, just plain, honest, God fearin’ folks who love the Lord.
