The Founding of Lockhart Baptist Church
Lockhart (Missionary) Baptist Church had its inception (beginning) in the State of South Carolina in that part of Edgefield County which has since been made Saluda County (under a “Brush-Arbor”) somewhere around the year 1866. That “Brush-Arbor” was situated on the Ellis’ Place, and it was there where our Founding Fathers worshipped and served their God for approximately four years before becoming dissatisfied and moving to our present location. However, we must note here that our present church building was not erected until 1959.
In 1870, however, that membership erected their first frame building on this four acre tract of land given to them by a Mr. Richardson, a large plantation owner. Consideration and negotiation and praise for this effort, however, is due to Mr. Harry Logan, a renowned blacksmith of that day who interceded for his people in securing this land and in whom Mr. Richardson had deep respect and trust – and greatly admired for his ability, faith, and trust, although he was his former slave. Lockhart Baptist Church was organized in 1870. The persons responsible for this organization were: Rev. James Foy Peterson, Mr. Levi Adams (White), and Mr. Harry Logan (Founder). As so often is the case with most groups, when time came to move to the new location from the “Brush-Arbor”, there were those who objected. But this matter was quickly resolved through a vote. According to the records, Mr. Isaac Smith was elected secretary and the record showed those going to the new site were: Sister Egline Attaway, Malissa Richardson, Mike Richardson, Adam Darron, Burrell Bonham, Richmond Lewis, and Harry Logan. The new site was accepted. The Church was named in honor of Mr. Lockhart, a foreigner, who owned the spring where the school children, church member, and everybody around that area drew their water.
The first Pastor was Rev. G. A. Morgan with Mr. Isaac Smith serving as secretary. Other officers were Harry Logan, Burrell Bonham, Richmond Lewis, Robert Lewis, Abner Hill and Gabe Daniel. During the pastorate of Rev. Morgan, the First Church was built and many souls were saved and added to the church. His tenure was from 1870-1888.
Pastors of Lockhart Baptist Church
During its 133 year history, Lockhart and its members have been blessed with 21 dynamic pastors, each committed to doing God’s will, leading souls to Christ, and guiding His flock.
| 1870-1888 Rev. G. A. Morgan | 1911-1913 Rev. Dr. A. P. Dunbar |
| 1888-1889 Rev. B. W. Jones | 1914-1920 Rev. J. W. Coleman |
| 1890-1893 Rev. Ira Williams | 1920-1920 Rev. J. F. Marshall |
| 1894-1899 Rev S. A. Neeley | 1921-1926 Rev. T. H. Brodus |
| 1899-1899 Rev. Richard Carroll | 1927-1939 Rev. W. T. Kenner |
| 1899-1901 Rev. W. M. Peterson | 1939-1947 Rev. H. W. Gilliams |
| 1901-1902 Rev. Willie Peterson |
1947-1948 Rev. J. W. Coleman |
1948-1968 – Rev. A. M. Matthews
1968-1974 – REV. LATTA R. THOMAS
1975-1980 – REV. J. E. PREACHER, JR.
1982-1993 – Dr. L. M. Tyler
1993-1995 – REV. JAMES TAYLOR
1995-1997 – REV. HARRY T. LEGONS
1998-Present – REV. HERMAN N. JENKINS