A STORY OF SHILOH BAPTIST CHURCH’S 150+ YEAR JOURNEY

Shiloh Baptist Church’s small beginnings tells a powerful story of faith and determination. The church was founded under a simple brush arbor on the very lot where the church now stands, providing a space for freed peoples to worship and find solace after emancipation. Under the leadership of Rev. Gilmore and the pioneering efforts of its first trustees—Jeff Nolan, J.H. Findley, R.A. Allen, and D.L. Pate—Shiloh quickly grew into more than just a place of worship. It became the first church in the City of McDonough and Henry County to establish a school for African American children and freed enslaved peoples. This visionary move was not just about education; it was about creating a future of equality, hope, and empowerment for those who had long been denied these basic rights. 

Founded in 1869 by former slaves, Shiloh’s history reflects the resilience, determination, and progress of the African American community in McDonough and beyond. Its earliest members, led by Rev. Gilmore, worshiped under a humble “Brush Arbor” before purchasing land in 1875 to erect their first church building. Trustees Jeff Nolan, J.H. Findley, R.A. Allen, and D.L. Pate negotiated this historic purchase, which also included a “society house,” setting the stage for Shiloh’s legacy as a beacon of hope and progress.

From 1918 to 1921, Rev. P.L. Scruggs served as the third (3rd) pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church.  During his time as pastor, Rev. Scruggs continued to lead the congregation and initiated the raising of funds for laying of the church’s Cornerstone, which happened in 1918. Shiloh’s visionary leadership has been central to its growth and impact. Rev. J.H. Moore (1896–1899) inspired the congregation to raise funds for a new building, completed in 1899, demonstrating the strength of collective faith and determination. Later, Rev. Paul Luther Scruggs, born to freed slaves, continued the church’s physical expansion while nurturing its spiritual growth.

Frank Paschal who served from 1921-1923 was the fourth (4th) pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church. Rev. Will S. Simmons was the fifth (5th) pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church. Rev. Simmons answered the call and led the membership from 1923-1929. From 1929 to 1944, Rev. C.H. Holland served as the sixth (6th) pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church. Rev. C. C. Cloud served as the seventh (7th) pastor from 1945-1946.

 Rev. Richard Henry Milner (1946–1974), a close friend of Rev. Martin Luther King Sr., shepherded the church through transformative decades. Milner and his wife, Arnicia, were influential leaders in Henry County, exemplifying stewardship and empowerment. The church reached its peak under the leadership of Rev. R.H. Milner. Rev. Milner’s guidance marked a period of growth and influence for Shiloh, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of the community.

Rev. E.W. Lee, Shiloh’s longest-serving pastor, took the helm in 1974 and led the church until his retirement in 2021. Under his nearly five decades of leadership, Rev. Lee’s commitment to education and community outreach became hallmarks of his tenure. A graduate of Morris Brown College and the North Carolina College of Theology, Rev. Lee was deeply invested in empowering the next generation. His leadership extended far beyond the pulpit, as he served as the Executive Director of the Campbellton YMCA for 33 years, Chaplain of the Henry County Police Department, and in numerous community leadership roles. His dedication to Shiloh’s growth and vision culminated in the construction of the 33,000-square-foot Family Life Center, named the “Rev. Dr. E.W. & Betty A. Lee Family Life Center” in 2016, a testament to his and his wife’s unwavering commitment to the church and its mission.

Education has always been central to Shiloh’s mission, dating back to 1897 when the Society of the United Brothers and Sisters of Friendship deeded land for the first African American two-story schoolhouse in McDonough, located next to the church. Shiloh’s members have included prominent educators and community leaders, such as Mrs. Johnnie and Bertha Combs, who taught at Henry County High School, and the Shiloh Community Choir, whose music inspired many during the 1960s and 1970s.

Through generations, Shiloh Baptist Church has remained a sanctuary of faith, a foundation of education, and a force for positive change in the McDonough community. Its history is a testament to the strength, unity, and perseverance of its members, who have faced challenges with unwavering faith and resolve. From its humble beginnings under a Brush Arbor to its modern-day achievements, Shiloh continues to serve as a beacon of hope and progress.