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Wildwood Building History

The early history of Wildwood coincides with the early history of Watertown, both having their origins at the time of the Civil War, long before the city of East Moline was founded. The church was organized in July, 1865 by the Rev. S. P. Warren as the First Baptist Church of Watertown. The name was later changed to Watertown Baptist Church. In 1867, it had 22 recorded members.

The orginal building was located on 19th Street in East Moline. The building was later moved to a site on 20th Street between 2w Avenue and 3rd Avenue where it stood until April 1942.

In 1936 Rev. David Goodwin was called as pastor, serving until 1970. On July 19, 1942 a new building was dedicated at 2015 2w Avenue. Extensive remodeling and additions were completed on this building throughout its history. Rev. Paul Hieber served as pastor from 1970 - 1976. In 1972 the church purchased nearly 15 acres of land on Hubbard Road, in the Hampton Bluff area. During the late 1970, a picnic shelter with restrooms and showers was built on the new property. Rev. Millard Frauman served as pastor fron 1976 - 1977. He was succeeded by Rev. John White, who served from 1977 - 1995.

In June, 1979, the congregation voted to build what is now Wildwood Baptist Church for an approximate cost of $800,000. Construction began in 1980 and in May of 1981 the church moved to its present location on Hubbard Road and changed its name to Wildwood Baptist Church. Rev. R. Scott Boerckel came to serve as senior pastor in September, 1996. Since moving to its present location, a garage was constructed which in 1997 was converted to youth ministry space. An elevator was constructed in 1997, making the facility more accessible for the disabled. In 1998 the lower level was remodeled.