The First Baptist Church of Santo, Texas is the oldest continually active Baptist Church in Palo Pinto County, Texas.  This congregation was chartered on November 3, 1872, under an oak tree near the Santo east cemetery.  The Church was originally known as the Missionary Baptist Church of Christ at Cottonwood Grove on Palo Pinto Creek.  The Church began with eight charter members.  The present congregational name was adopted by the 1930's.  For well over a century, The First Baptist Church of Santo has been active in community service, mission endeavors, associational work, and the licensing and ordination of ministers.  The Church was selected as a historical site by the State of Texas Historical Commission in 1982.

Construction of the new sanctuary was started January 13, 1997, and dedicated on June 22, 1997.  The old sanctuary is still in use today for some services and Sunday School.  In 1997, a 125th Anniversary Celebration was held.