Established in the aftermath of Emancipation, First Union African Baptist Church has been a spiritual and cultural cornerstone of Daufuskie Island for over a century. Its founding dates back to 1879, when John I. Stoddard subdivided Mary Field Plantation and sold twelve acres to formerly enslaved people to establish a church and cemetery. In 1881, the land was purchased for $82 and the first church was constructed. Though that original building was destroyed by fire just three years later, the congregation rebuilt it near the original site—an enduring act of faith and resilience.1
Throughout the early 20th century, the church served as both sanctuary and schoolhouse. Beginning in 1916, Reverend Richard Thomas traveled monthly from Savannah to administer communion and lead spelling bees—combining spiritual guidance with academic enrichment.2
As job opportunities diminished and residents migrated to the mainland, the church closed temporarily during the mid-20th century. In 1968, services resumed through the efforts of Reverend C. L. Hanshew and Pastor Bruce Newby, launching a new chapter in the church’s ministry. That year, First Union hosted its first Vacation Bible School.3
Reverend Ervin Greene led the congregation from 1976 to 1985, followed in 1986 by Elder Marion Taylor and his wife, sent as Special Project Missionaries. Elder Taylor was later appointed pastor, and under his leadership the church experienced spiritual and organizational renewal. Vacation Bible School and Sunday School resumed in 1988; a Usher Board and Revival programs were launched, and Deacon Lawrence Jenkins was installed. In 1998, the church reinstated its Anniversary Celebration and created an annual Homecoming Day.4
In July 1998, Dr. Clarence Edmondson became pastor, guiding the church through growth and incorporation into the Savannah River Baptist Association. By 2000, children’s programming was revived under leaders like Sister Shirley McKenzie and Trustee Melissa Davis. Pastor Edmondson retired in 2015 after 17 years of service. Associate Minister Aaron Crosby succeeded him and continues to serve as pastor.5
The church building was restored in the 1990s and remains open for worship, with Sunday services welcoming all. A replica of a praise house—once central to Gullah Geechee religious life—sits behind the church, honoring the spiritual traditions that have shaped the community for generations.6
Now recognized as a historical landmark, First Union African Baptist Church stands not only as an architectural site, but as a living symbol of faith, cultural endurance, and Black heritage on Daufuskie Island.