Uncovering the History of Carswell Grove Baptist Church

Carswell Grove Baptist Church holds a unique place in the history of Jenkins County. Founded in 1867 by African-American congregants who once worshiped at Big Buckhead Baptist Church, it stands as a testament to resilience and faith. Before the Civil War, black and white members worshipped together at Big Buckhead, though they sat in segregated pews. When the war ended, the African-American members formed their own congregation, meeting under a brush arbor (picture something similar to a pergola) until the first church building was completed in 1870.

History is often more complex than it seems. As I delved deeper into the story of Carswell Grove, I found myself in the quiet records room of the Jenkins County Courthouse. Among the faded documents, I located the warranty deed for the original two acres donated for the church’s construction. What I discovered added a new layer of mystery to this already compelling history.

Historical sources consistently state that the land was granted in 1867, with the first church building being built in 1870. The deed tells a different story: the official transfer didn’t occur until 1879. Was this delay due to post-Civil War administrative backlogs? Perhaps. It’s a fascinating detail, though not one that diminishes the church’s legacy—more a testament to the complexities of that era.

The real puzzle, however, lies in the name of the donor. Most accounts attribute the land donation to Porter W. Carswell, but the deed lists John Carswell instead. Two men named Porter Carswell existed—father and son, born in 1867 and 1904—but neither could have been the donor. As I pieced the story together, it became clear: the donor was likely Judge John Wright Carswell (1806–1885), Porter Sr.’s grandfather. His name on the 1879 deed shifts the narrative slightly, enriching the history and reminding us that even well-known stories hold hidden secrets.

The church has faced heartbreaking losses over the years. In 1919, the original building was destroyed by arson, but the congregation’s determination never wavered—they rebuilt that same year. Tragically, nearly a century later, the second structure also fell victim to arson, a devastating blow that underscores the fragility of history.

Today, only a humble wooden cross and a historical marker remain where one of Jenkins County’s oldest churches once stood. The emptiness of the site stirred a deep sense of loss within me—a quiet reminder that preserving these sacred places is our responsibility. Carswell Grove is more than just a church; it is a symbol of perseverance, faith, and community.

So, what can we do to honor the legacy of Carswell Grove Baptist Church? One simple way is through the Jenkins County Chamber of Commerce’s annual Christmas ornaments, which feature historical landmarks like Carswell Grove. These ornaments offer a beautiful way to preserve and celebrate our shared history.