The primary focus of the debate over the proper understanding of Genesis 1–11 has been focused on hermeneutics and theology. Special emphasis is placed on the interpretation of the Hebrew, the weight given to extrabiblical Ancient Near Eastern (ANE) sources, and the influence of contemporary science. While it is right for the central focus of the debate to be hermeneutics and theology (first biblical and then systematic,) a consultation of church history is valuable and instructive for determining what doctrines and beliefs have persisted widely in the church more broadly. If a belief has been held from the time of the early church, Christians should exercise caution and humility before accepting a different belief. When the stream of tradition flows against what is clearly taught in Scripture, Christians should side with Scripture, just as if Scripture clearly teaches something that contradicts the conclusions of scientists. This research will examine the writings of the early Church Fathers and show the three interpretations of the word "day" held by the early church, of which only the 24-hour day view has survived in any consequential form in Protestant circles. In addition, this research will demonstrate from early Christian writings that the early church was nearly united in the belief in a young earth, dating it between five and ten thousand years, even though they disagreed on how to interpret the Creation Week. This is not grounds alone for belief in a young earth or a literal six-day Creation period; however, it provides strong support for these ideas today and should cause one to pause before considering an alternative interpretation of Scripture.