The WBRBA traces its origins to the Northern Virginia Baptist Association (NVBA), which was founded in early 1877. The NVBA’s first gathering took place in Culpeper, Virginia, where the Rev. George Horner preached the inaugural sermon. This association spanned a large geographic area, stretching from Alexandria and Fairfax to parts of Culpeper and even into West Virginia. However, during the late 19th century, travel challenges—caused by limited train services and reliance on horse-and-buggy transportation—made it difficult for members to stay connected across such a vast region.

In response to these challenges, on July 17, 1889, a council of 21 churches convened at Antioch Baptist Church in Culpeper, Virginia. During this historic meeting, the decision was made to form a new, more regionally focused association to better serve the needs of local congregations. This led to the establishment of the Wayland Blue Ridge Baptist Association. The association held its first official session that August, electing Rev. R. H. Carey as its first Moderator and Rev. L.L. Marshall as the Secretary.

The name “Wayland Blue Ridge” reflects both the association’s roots and its connection to the local landscape. “Wayland” was inspired by the former Wayland Seminary, a historic institution that shaped many of the association’s founders. Meanwhile, the “Blue Ridge” portion of the name honors the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains that dot the region.