Constructed in c.1852, the land for the church and cemetery was donated by local businessman John W. Pearson, who also donated the materials for the church's construction. During the Civil War, Pearson organized, equipped and commanded the

Ocklawaha Rangers, a unit of local residents, which fought at the Battle of Olustee and later became a company in the 9th Florida Infantry.

Pearson's machine shop in Orange Springs also manufactured artillery and refurbished firearms for the Confederate military. While serving as lieutenant colonel, Pearson was severely wounded at the Battle of Globe Tavern, Virginia in August 1864.

While en route back to Orange Springs the following month, he died in Georgia from his wounds, and was buried there. Local tradition holds that the Orange Springs Community Church served as a Confederate Hospital during the war.

The cemetery contains the remains of both Confederate and Union soldiers, and a memorial monument for Pearson is located there.

Information Provided by the Florida Department of State.