The vision of the First Baptist Church of Mansfield dates back to 1818 when Elder Adolphus French started to hold religious services in certain homes, including that of Mordecai Bartley, who was later baptized by Elder French. Mr. Bartley later became Governor of Ohio. Other members received into this group included Rev. Matthew Cunen and his mother; William Van Horn and his wife; Charles Stewart, and Elizabeth Bartlett. These people formed the first organization of Baptists in this part of the country. On the 15th day of May, 1819, they were constituted as the Mansfield Church with fifty-three persons enrolled.

Shortly before 1860 the First Regular Baptist Church divided into two groups, one of which formed the Central Baptist Church. In 1867 they merged and became the Market Street Baptist Church, receiving official recognition from the Ohio Baptist Convention. The name of the street was later changed to Park Avenue. The new church was dedicated on June 17, 1863. Sixty-five years later, the church was sold to Farmers Savings & Trust Company (BankOne).

The present church building was erected in 1928 and dedicated on February 17, 1929. In 1956, a thirteen-room Educational Center was added.

  The church is a fine example of 15th century English Gothic architecture. Notable characteristics are the central spire, open trusses, blue and gold ceilings, elaborate perpendicular paneling, diamond glass and 4 segment arched window and doors. There is a great deal of traditional symbolism in the church auditorium. The building was designed by the Mansfield firm of Althouse & Jones. The church was added to The National Register of Historical Places on July 8, 1983.