Bath Presbyterian
Richmond County | Organized in 1784
Bath Presbyterian Church traces its roots to the wealthy planter families of Burke County who, in the late 18th century, began retreating to the mineral springs of Bath to escape the heat and malaria of summer. At first, they gathered for worship in homes, then in a log structure, before commissioning the fine sanctuary that still stands today, completed in 1836. The congregation was largely Scots-English Presbyterians, bringing with them both their faith and traditions.
Read more...The builder of this elegant sanctuary was John Trowbridge, a Massachusetts native who had migrated south and quickly established himself as the master builder of Bath’s fine homes. His brothers later joined him, cementing a long relationship between the Trowbridge family and Bath Presbyterian Church.
As with much of the South, Bath’s prosperity suffered during the Civil War. Local tradition holds that Union soldiers attempted to dismantle the church’s pulpit, only to find it impossible since it extended into the ground beneath. Instead, they carried off the silver communion and baptismal vessels—precious pieces of the church’s early heritage.
By the late 20th century, Bath Presbyterian was still closely tied to the Trowbridge family. A church history written in 1987 noted that Harper Trowbridge, at nearly 97 years old, was still a faithful member, rarely missing a Sunday service. His story is one of many that remind us how the earliest builders of Georgia’s churches and communities maintained lasting connections to their descendants. Today, Bath Presbyterian stands as Richmond County’s first Presbyterian church outside Augusta and remains a testament to the endurance of faith, family, and stewardship across nearly two centuries.
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11 responses to “Bath Presbyterian”
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I came last week to see the outside of it.
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I almost got married in this church in 1999. We would have if the marriage licenses weren’t such a challenge for those living out of state. I, too, am descended (2nd great grandfather) from John Trowbridge, who built this church. Attended whenever I visited my cousin, a member and regular attendee, Marguerite McRae. It seemed like I must be related to half of the people in the congregation. I so enjoyed Homecoming whenever I could travel from wherever I was living (Atlanta, Dallas, Charleston). I recall many of my distant relatives (the Trowbridges) in attendance. The fellowship and stories were a blessing. My grandmother would talk about Bath often and I heard lots of stories growing up. So glad it is on the Historical registry. Haven’t been back since about 2007.
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Yes, I wonder if anyone has the history of the lil school house on Bath Edie. (3885 Bath Edie Rd.) And or the mansion that sits just East of the school house. My son just bought the property that the school house sits on and they are thinking of tearing it down. Just wanted to know some history of the place. Tks
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I was christened in this church in 1976. My lovely sister Lori Williams plays the piano for the church, and before her my mother did for many years. My brother, Jamie, is the Sunday school superintendent and elder. I have since left the church but this is confirmation for me to return. I miss it dearly. The pastor, Boyd Lien is a dear man who is filled with wonderful stories as well as the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is there and comforts us every time we visit. Thank you so much for this work you did in preparing this article. And the pictures are beautiful. Thank you. May God Bless you and keep you safe. Please come visit. Anyone who is reading or telling of this or just hearing another do so…i pray youll visit soon. With love in Christ, Jennifer Enfinger
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Very heart felt. Thanks for sharing Jennifer.
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I miss this church!
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Beautiful place I’ve been there a few times for civil war markers dedications and a funeral service and some other things that went on there
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Yes. She is a beauty.
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Thanks for the article my great great grandfather build the church
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Thanks Marianne. Living history.
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Hello Cousin!!
John Francis is my 3rd GGF father of my 2nd GGM Adelaide Maria mother of my GGF Paul Edgeworth Eve.
Can’t wait till I can visit Bath, and see where our ancestors lived!
Kim Knight Austin
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