Columbus church celebrates 126-year anniversary

The New Greater Smith Chapel Baptist Church located at 833 Preston St. celebrated their 126-year anniversary this past Sunday, Jan. 12.

Following their normal church services led by Rev. Dr. Joseph Hargrove, a celebration was held at 2 p.m., with Rev. Murray G. Martin, pastor of the Holman Street Baptist Church from Houston, speaking as the special guest.

The legacy of the church took its roots in January 1899, when Smith Chapel Baptist Church was organized under the leadership of the reverend at the time, Rev. S.C. Smith. The LaGrange Association purchased the land for $250, where the church still stands today.