Our Story

Queen Street Baptist Church traces its rich spiritual lineage back to 1776 through its mother church, the First Baptist Church of Williamsburg. The congregation’s local narrative officially began in 1865 when believers, seeking spiritual freedom after the end of slavery, first gathered at the Hampton Court House. They later established their community near the historic Emancipation Oak.

Under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Thomas H. Shorts, the congregation transitioned from temporary schoolhouses to dedicate its first substantial frame building in May 1876. Officially renamed Queen Street Baptist Church in 1890, the community continually transformed fire and trials into a legacy of enduring faith.

Pictured (right): First Baptist Church of Williamsburg, circa 1770s

Queen Street Baptist Church entered a season of visionary expansion. Beginning in 1969 with the chartering of a Federal Credit Union to empower the community economically, the ministry grew through deep dedication. Following a massive $350,000 renovation, the sanctuary was rededicated in 1977. Spiritual growth flourished with the 1987 founding of the Children’s Church and the 1992 launch of new Doctrine Classes. Horizon-expanding moves followed, including the 2007 opening of Queen Street North and a 150th anniversary in 2015, culminating in a triumphant mortgage burning celebration on April 13, 2024.

Pictured (left): Queen Street Baptist Church, circa 1960s

Moving forward, Queen Street Baptist Church is embracing a future of digital transformation and expanded community outreach. Under visionary leadership, we are launching strategic campaigns to modernize our sanctuary experience, honoring our resilient history as we strive toward our ultimate milestone: becoming a 5-Star Church.