Charles B. Austin (Jan 1, 1923 - Jun 30, 1952)
Rev. Charles Berry Austin, came to West Washington in 1923 after three and a half years as pastor of the First Church, Laurinburg, N.C. His first student pastorate was at the Vandola Baptist Church, Virginia. West Washington enjoyed steady growth and spiritual improvement under his able ministry. His sermons were consistently evangelisitic. Our pastor served two terms as President of the District of Columbia Convention. He was a Trustee of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a state member of the Relief and Annuity Board. The attainment of the young people were never better. In 1927, the church spent $5,000 for improvements, including the redecorating of its auditorium.
Pastor and people were delighted with the Seventy-fifth Anniversary ceremonies. On Sunday, June 15, Dr. Cornelius C. Coleman, pastor of the Grace Baptist Church, Richmond, delivered teh sermon at the opening anniversary service. On the natal day, June 19, a fellowship banquet was held followed by the anniversary address by Dr. Bernard C. Clausen, First Baptist Church, Pittsburg. The closing Sermon on June 22 was given by Rev. William R. Flannagan, pastor of the Onancock Baptist Church, Virginia.
Mr. Elsie Wilcox Austin atted Woman's College, University of Richmond. Our Dr. Nelson was then President of the College. For several years she was orgainst of the Waverly Methodist Church. She was married to our pastor at her home in 1926. After they came to Georgetown, she became a member of our church, and was baptized by her husband.
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