Some of Niles’ oldest churches were an integral part of what shaped the community’s history.
This Sunday, the First Baptist Church of Niles will celebrate 175 years as one of those churches with a storied past.
Church member Sandy Banacka has been a part of the church since the 1980s.
She said the history of the church starts with the story of Isaac McCoy, who arrived in the area around 1822 as a Baptist missionary.
McCoy established a church, log cabin and school. He wanted to convert the native Potawatomi Indians through the Carey Mission, as well as to encourage further settlement of white people in the fertile southwest Michigan area.
McCoy was believed to be a friend to the native people, who provided council during treaty negotiations left.
McCoy left the Niles area around 1832, when the native people were forced from their land.
However, the community’s desire to have a Baptist Church would persist. In 1841, a covenant formed and a small church with a white frame and square bell tower was later erected in 1844. It is believed that the first church was built on Fourth Street and Broadway and consisted of 16 charter members.
The church grew rapidly in the following years. The old structure reportedly moved and a new church was built in 1878.
The most recent building, which stands at 1446 East Main St., was constructed in 1965. One hundred and seventy five years later, the church has more than 200 members.
Banacka said she most enjoys the fellowship of her members and the church’s aim to help the community.
“We are a very loving open church,” Banacka said. “We help people.”
Banacka welcomes the community to participate in a celebration, which starts at 9:30 a.m. and lasts until 4 p.m. Sunday.
The activities will proceed as follows:
• 9:30 a.m. — Sunday school
• 10:30 a.m. — message including special music and previous pastors
• 12:30 p.m. — potluck
• 2-4 p.m. — open house reception
All events are free to attend.