Huntsville, Alabama's Historic Churches

Huntsville, Alabama's Historic Churches - First Baptist

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Gregory_McDivitt]Gregory McDivitt

Few churches in America have as rich a history as First Baptist Church of Huntsville, Alabama. Not only is it still thriving, it's also one of the biggest churches in the city, and for that matter, the entire state of Alabama. It's also the oldest Southern Baptist church in the state, being formed even before the state of Alabama was recognized. Many people who pass the church every day while traveling down Governor's Drive are probably unaware of this rich history. Unfortunately, much of the church's majesty is marred by a huge, garish mural that was painted on the side of the church that faces Governor's Drive when the church moved to this new location during the 1960s, which belies the historic roots of this otherwise beautiful church. As the church approaches its bicentennial, more people should be made aware of its roots.

First Baptist was officially organized on June 3, 1809, as West Fork of Flint Baptist Church. Soon, though, members decided the name was too long, and changed the name to Enon Church. The original church building was several miles north of its present location near downtown Huntsville. As the church grew, however, more and more of its members were residents of Huntsville proper, and the church again changed its name in 1893 to First Baptist of Huntsville.

In 1895 FBC moved to a beautiful building on the corner of Clinton and Gallatin streets downtown. They remained there for over seventy years, but finally outgrew the building, which was designed to hold 450 worshipers, in the mid 1960s. First Baptist then moved to its present location on Governor's Drive, just off Memorial Parkway.

2009 marks the 200th anniversary of First Baptist Church of Huntsville, and its members are looking forward to another 200 years of serving the community. If you're ever in the area, stop by the church and read all about its history yourself on the historic marker which has been erected to note FBC's place in Alabama history.

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Find more information on theFirst Baptist Church @ The Adherents Religion Website.