History

About the Church

Lawson Grove Baptist Church began in 1882 as Eli Grove Baptist Church when founding members met in a Bush Harbor located in the Philadelphia Community of Darlington County. The simple shed-like frame was made from tree limbs and branches, and the top covered with bushes.

In 1924, Eli Grove was burned down. The Reverend Henry Graham, who was pastor at the time, and Eli Grove members moved their worship service to the Galilee School, which was located on Highway 401 near the Syracuse Community.

In June of 1925, Mr. L. M. Lawson donated two acres of land to Eli Grove Baptist Church. The land was deeded to Sylvester Ham, who served as a trustee and the Sunday School Superintendent at the time; he was later ordained as deacon. The Church was named in honor of Mr. L. M. Lawson. The first pastor of Lawson Grove Baptist Church was Reverend Henry Graham, who served as Pastor until his death in 1938.

He was followed by:

  • Reverend James Brayboy (1939-1953) who served until his death

  • Reverend Paul Myers (1953-1964) who served until his death

  • Reverend Simon McKenney (1965-1990) who served until his death

  • Reverend Wilbert White (1990-2002)

  • Reverend Dr. Ronald L. Carter, Phd (2003-2010)

  • Reverend Anthony Hooks, 2012 - 2023

In 1993, Lawson Grove was once again destroyed, this time by a windstorm. The members moved their worship service to Spaulding Junior High School in Lamar, South Carolina and later moved to a building in Darlington, South Carolina, which was provided by the members of Bethel A.M.E. Church. In the spring of 1994, members of Lawson Grove returned home and began to hold services in the newly erected Fellowship Hall. In the summer of 1995, the sanctuary was rebuilt. Rededication services were held on Sunday, August 27, 1995.

In 2011, Reverend Anthony Hooks became the seventh pastor of the church.

Lawson Grove – All Are Welcome!