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Stilwell Today
By the People, for the People
Historic Rock Springs Baptist Church in Oklahoma Destroyed by Fire
The 100-year-old church was a cornerstone of the Stilwell community.
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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Rock Springs Baptist Church, a historic landmark in Stilwell, Oklahoma that has been a cornerstone of the community since 1925, was tragically destroyed by a fire on Sunday night. The cause of the blaze is under investigation, but church leaders do not suspect foul play. Despite the devastating loss, the congregation is leaning on their faith and has received an outpouring of support from the local community.
Why it matters
Rock Springs Baptist Church held deep significance for the Stilwell community, serving as a place of worship and gathering for nearly a century. Its destruction represents the loss of an important historical and cultural landmark that was central to the lives of many residents.
The details
The fire broke out on Sunday night, leaving the 100-year-old church building in ruins. Investigators from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) are looking into the cause, but church leaders believe it may have started in the attic. Despite the devastation, the congregation is determined to move forward, with plans to hold services at a local Methodist church starting this Sunday.
- The fire broke out on Sunday night, February 19, 2026.
- Rock Springs Baptist Church was established in 1925 and had been in use for 80 years prior to the fire.
The players
Rock Springs Baptist Church
A historic church in Stilwell, Oklahoma that has been a cornerstone of the community since 1925.
Jeff Brown
The lead pastor of Rock Springs Baptist Church.
Justin Swaffar
The associate pastor of Rock Springs Baptist Church.
What they’re saying
“On Sunday, I preached a message out of Matthew where it talks about, if we have the faith of a mustard seed, we can move mountains. The next morning, even as the building was still smoldering, the back section of the building caught on fire.”
— Jeff Brown, Lead Pastor
“The community has been absolutely amazing with businesses wanting to come in and help, and people wanting to send things to the church.”
— Justin Swaffar, Associate Pastor
What’s next
Investigators from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) will continue to look into the cause of the fire, and the congregation of Rock Springs Baptist Church will begin holding services at a local Methodist church as they determine their next steps.
The takeaway
The destruction of Rock Springs Baptist Church, a beloved community landmark, has left the Stilwell community in mourning. However, the outpouring of support and the congregation's resilience in the face of this tragedy demonstrates the strength of the community's faith and their commitment to rebuilding and moving forward.
