Our Story

The First Baptist Church of Norwood was established in 1858 when Norwood was known as South Dedham. On October 13 of that year, 35 members from the West Dedham (now Westwood) Baptist Church joined local Baptists to form the South Dedham Baptist Society. They held initial services in Union Hall and Hartshorn Hall. By June 7, 1859, the congregation laid the cornerstone for their own church building on Washington Street, dedicating it on December 1, 1859. The church's prominent white steeple, a local landmark for decades, was destroyed during the New England Hurricane of 1938 and subsequently replaced with a smaller spire. In 1950, the original church property was sold, and the congregation relocated to a new building at 71 Bond Street, with the cornerstone laid on October 7, 1951, and the dedication service held on January 27, 1952.

After dedicating their new building at 71 Bond Street in 1952, First Baptist Church of Norwood continued to serve the community with various events and initiatives. In 1961, the church hosted its annual fair with an "Around The World" theme, engaging the congregation and local residents in cultural festivities. By 1965, the church participated in "Good Neighbor Sunday," reflecting its commitment to fostering community spirit and outreach. The congregation continues to gather for worship and fellowship as well as engage the community and the world.