Our Beginnings

Shiloh Primitive Baptist Church was born out of the grace of God working in the hearts of faithful men and women who longed to worship freely. In 1872, Papy Joshua and Alex Slaughter organized the church, and Elder B.E. Edmondson was called as its first pastor. What began with a few God‑fearing believers has grown into a mighty congregation, rooted in Bastrop County, Texas. Today, Shiloh stands at the corner of Farm‑to‑Market Road 20, County Road 82, and Shiloh Road—just six miles east of Bastrop.

Early Foundations

The first Shiloh Church was a humble log cabin, serving as a place of worship for 18 years. By 1873, Shiloh hosted the first Annual Session of the Providence District Association, with Elder Edmondson elected Vice Moderator. Over the years, Shiloh became a mother church, helping to establish Hopewell Primitive Baptist Church in Cedar Creek in 1884.

In 1890, a second building was constructed, serving both as a sanctuary and a community school. Like many early Black churches, Shiloh was not only a place of worship but also a center for education and fellowship. Though this building was lost to fire in 1915, the congregation pressed forward, building again and continuing to grow.

Growth and Legacy

Through the decades, Shiloh’s buildings have reflected both resilience and vision. Land was deeded to the church in 1917 by George and Martha Washington, faithful members who valued worship and education. The congregation worshiped in its third and fourth buildings until 1963, when the current site was purchased. Construction of the present sanctuary began in 1967, with the Entrance Ceremony held later that year under Elder R.C. Easley. In 1972, the church celebrated the burning of its mortgage note—a milestone of faith and perseverance.

Expanding the Vision

Shiloh has continued to flourish under the leadership of many pastors. Renovations and expansions over the years have added comfort, beauty, and functionality: cushioned pews, a social hall, outdoor baptistery, modern sound systems, and even pastoral housing—the first of its kind among Black Primitive Baptist churches in Bastrop County. Each generation has contributed to the legacy, ensuring Shiloh remains a beacon of worship and community.

A Heritage of Leadership

Over 159 years, twenty‑three pastors have faithfully shepherded Shiloh Primitive Baptist Church. From Elder B.E. (Barney) Edmondson, our founding pastor, to leaders such as Elder Butler, S.M. Britt, Cornelius Brown, Sam Bass, Worth (W.C.) Clark, Alex Slaughter, Mack Howard, R.C. Easley, Horace Johnson, J.H. Clay, Huet Sampson, John (J.B.) Bryant, Dave Roberts, Willie Boyd Bradshaw, Elmo Lee, C.B. Jones, Raymond Banks, A.R. Simons, Woody Benford, R.H. Howard, Larry Washington, Elder Wesley Reliford, and now Elder Adrian G. Abrams, each pastor has left a unique imprint on the life of the church.

Together, these men of God carried Shiloh through seasons of challenge and growth, guiding the congregation with vision, prayer, and steadfast devotion. Their leadership reflects the enduring truth that God raises up shepherds to care for His people, ensuring that Shiloh remains a beacon of faith and community. This rich pastoral heritage continues to inspire us as we look toward the future with hope and purpose.

Our Mission Today

Shiloh Primitive Baptist Church holds the honor of being the Mother Church of Black Primitive Baptist congregations in Bastrop, Travis, and surrounding counties. Guided by Psalm 122:6—“They shall prosper that love thee”—we remain grounded in grace and committed to love. From candles to electricity, from log cabins to brick sanctuaries, Shiloh has stood the test of time by God’s mercy.

Today, under Pastor Abrams’ leadership, our vision reaches beyond the walls of the church. We are dedicated to carrying the message of Christ’s love into the community, bridging hearts to God, and inviting all to grow with us.