Our History.
A Legacy of Faith Since 1895
Broadus Memorial Baptist Church was founded in 1895, named in honor of Dr. John A. Broadus, a respected Baptist leader and one of the founders of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. The church began in a small, temporary building at 32nd and East Marshall Streets in the Church Hill area of Richmond, Virginia.
In 1901, the growing congregation moved into a new building at 32nd and Broad Street, where it continued to serve the community faithfully for many years. A significant milestone came in 1945, when Broadus merged with East End Baptist Church, uniting two vibrant congregations into one stronger fellowship.
Growing and Moving Forward
In the 1950s, under the leadership of Dr. Ford, Broadus relocated to the Glenwood Farms area of Henrico County to meet the needs of a changing congregation. During this period, members gathered at Ratcliffe Elementary School until a new sanctuary and educational space were completed. By 1986, the church expanded further with the addition of more classrooms and a Family Center to support growing ministries.
As membership continued shifting toward Hanover County, the church made another bold move. In 2005, Broadus sold its Harvie Road and Laburnum Avenue property and began meeting at Lee-Davis High School while preparing for a permanent new home.
Groundbreaking for the new facility at 5351 Pole Green Road in Mechanicsville took place in November 2005, and the first worship service was joyfully held on Easter Sunday 2007.
A Season of Growth and Mission
Since moving to the Pole Green Campus, Broadus Church has continued to grow in both membership and ministry. New spaces—including a community building, garage, classroom trailers, and open pavilion—have expanded opportunities for worship, education, and outreach.
Faithful Leadership
One of the most remarkable parts of Broadus’ story is its continuity in leadership. Since 1912, Broadus has had only four pastors—a rare and beautiful testament to stability and shared vision.
The previous three pastors, including Pastor Emeritus Joseph Holland, each served an average of 28 years, remaining active in ministry even after retirement. Our current pastor, Phil Peacock, was called to Broadus in 1998 and continues to lead with dedication, humility, and a passion for discipleship.
A New Chapter: The Hebron Campus
In 2016, Broadus Church expanded its ministry through the acquisition of Hebron Baptist Church on Route 30 in King William County.
Founded in 1825 as Mangohick Baptist Church, Hebron has a rich and enduring history. The congregation moved to its current site in 1854, where it took on the Hebron name. The church building still bears reminders of the Civil War, including a bullet mark on the doorframe and a handwritten note left by a Union soldier in the church Bible.
During the 20th century, Hebron added a fellowship hall, kitchen, restrooms, and expanded its cemetery grounds. After 190 years of ministry, the faithful Hebron congregation held its final service in January 2016.
What seemed like an ending became a new beginning. After months of prayer, renovation, and preparation, Broadus Church launched the Hebron Campus, extending its mission and worship to a second location. Today, Broadus proudly serves as One Church in Two Locations—united in purpose, faith, and the love of Jesus Christ.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
From its humble beginnings in Richmond to its vibrant ministry across Hanover and King William Counties, Broadus Church stands as a testimony to God’s faithfulness and the enduring power of community. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to our mission: to make each one a witness for Christ.
