From the church archives
Before these brick walls,
there was a tent.
Neighbors provided a place to meet, donated land, and helped build the first church.
1934
A beginning under canvas
On July 1, the Reverends Fred Cooper and H. C. Kivett began a tent revival on Oscar Page’s property. The meeting lasted six weeks. Mr. and Mrs. Ben Marley donated a lot, and the new congregation met in Etheridge Thomas’ home while neighbors helped build a church.
November 1934
Sawdust floors and kerosene lamps
The first building measured 30 by 40 feet. Boards served as pews, and kerosene lamps lit evening services. A dedication on November 11 became another revival. On November 24, the congregation was organized as Hemp Pilgrim Holiness Church.
1951–1953
The sanctuary we know
During the pastorate of the Rev. Gurney Laws, a new sanctuary was built beside the original church. It was dedicated on September 27, 1953. The church also used a ‘Good Samaritan’ bus to bring people to worship.
1968
Our Wesleyan name
The congregation became Robbins First Wesleyan Church during the merger of the Wesleyan Methodist and Pilgrim Holiness denominations. Its name changed while its commitment to Christ and holy living continued.
1991
Making room around the table
The fellowship building was dedicated during the Rev. David Fruth’s pastorate. The original church had been removed to make room for this new gathering space.
1998–2010
Light through stained glass
The stained-glass windows were added during the Rev. Wilson Harris’ pastorate. They remain a recognizable part of the sanctuary’s character.
The story continues
New ways to gather.
The same call to worship.
In 2020, Pastor Cameron Dockery and the congregation adapted worship during the pandemic. A feature in The Wesleyan Church described drive-in services and arrangements for worship across the sanctuary, parking lot, and fellowship hall.
The church’s 92nd Homecoming was announced for September 27, 2026, with choir music, guest speakers, and a fellowship meal.
Read the 2020 Wesleyan feature
Do you have a piece of our story?
Old bulletins, church photographs, and memories help preserve a congregation’s history. Contact the church if you have something to share.
Contact the church