Organized in 1727, this group began meeting in the home of William Burgess, situated at the head of Raymonds Creek. Meetings were later moved to a small structure built by Burgess, now pastor, on his own land. In 1757, the congregation moved again to a building, built by his son John, who later became pastor. The Burgesses were responsible for a school house built on the church grounds.

In 1812, the church acquired the name Shiloh, having been referred to in previous years as the Burgess’es Meeting House, North Meeting House or Camden Meeting House.

After attempts for several years to construct a new church on five acres of land purchased from Abner Brockett, the final and current building was constructed in 1848. Though this church has had several revisions and remodeling, it retains the same basic structure. Exploration in the attic reveals wooden pegs used for construction in the rafters. In 1878 a steeple was added, complete with a bell in the tower which still peals a call to worshipers today.

In the early 1860’s, during the Civil War, Shiloh Baptist was occupied for a short period of time by a colored regiment of Union soldier troops and used as their headquarters and arsenal.

Brian Forehand, local historian and member or the church shares numerous stories, records and photos from past generations. He notes members could be dismissed from the church’s congregation for terrible trespasses such as “dancing or going to Norfolk, VA on the Sabbath.”

Also noted in interesting facts:

In 1833 Abner Brockett, sexton, received a salary of $4.00 for the year to furnish fire wood.

In 1854 the congregation authorized Jacob Mercer to buy “50 earthern spit boxes”.

In 1866, Shiloh had 112 baptisms.

Numerous old graves dating from 1761 are connected with the church and its grounds where burials continued until the late 1930’s.

Contact Church for Service times or historical contact for more information.

Shiloh Baptist is located at 952 S. Hwy 343, Shiloh, NC 27974, just 7 miles from the Camden Courthouse.

shilohbapt@embarqmail.com

Phone: 252-336-4280

Historical contact for Shiloh Baptist Church – Brian Forehand – 252-336-5567

Sources:

Shiloh Baptist Church Anniversary Bulletin / Notes from Brian Forehand