About Polly Chapel Baptist Church

About Polly Chapel Baptist Church in Texarkana, Texas.

Polly Chapel Baptist Church has a long and interesting history of Christian service. The church was founded in 1871. The church is located two blocks north of Highway 82 on Spruce Street. It is believed that the original site was several blocks west of the present location on James Street between the properties of the Frazier and Samuel families. The Sanctuary is presently located on property formerly owned by the Barcus Hall Family.

Sister Polly and her daughter, Sister Betsy Payne, are credited with organizing the church. In honor of her spiritual insight and faithful service, the church was organized on a site near this present location and named for her. A minister known only as “John the Baptist,” conducted the first service in that church.

Construction of the present edifice began on March 19,1972 and was completed in December 1972 under the pastorate of the late Rev. R.A. McCurry. The church was paid for in four years and eight months. The church mortgage was burned on June 26, 1977.

Many noble ministers and outstanding church leaders have served on the hallowed grounds of Polly Chapel Baptist Church. During the early years, the exact tenure of each is not fully documented. Polly Chapel continues to offer programs designed to develop and sustain strong Christian ideals.

Our history is rich and reflects the faithful work of dedicated individuals who love the Lord. Polly Chapel proudly upholds its legacy of service to the community, state, and nation. With a sincere desire to meet the needs of the people and to serve as a Christian influence, we continue to move forward into the Twenty-First Century with faith, purpose, and commitment.

MISSION STATEMENT - 2026

The mission of Polly Chapel Baptist Church to be an engaging, equipping, educating church that ministers to the total person, maintains the Christian core values of faith, love and hope and motivates one another to good works that glorify God and edify people.

VISION STATEMENT – 2026

We envision Polly Chapel Baptist Church as a people and a place of connection that lives for Christ and loves like Christ because we have been liberated by Christ.