First Baptist Church (Selma, Alabama) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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First Baptist Church
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First Baptist Church of Selma in 2013
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 Location in Alabama
Location in the United States
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| Location | 709 Martin Luther King, Jr. St., Selma, Alabama |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1894 |
| Architect | Dave Benjamin West |
| NRHP reference No. | 79000383 |
| Added to NRHP | September 20, 1979 |
The First Baptist Church is a very important historical church located at 709 Martin Luther King, Jr. Street in Selma, Alabama. It was built in 1894 and has a beautiful Gothic Revival style. This church is especially famous because of its big role in the Civil Rights Movement, a time when people worked hard for equal rights for all. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, which means it's recognized as a special historical site.
Contents
A Special Place for Change
In 1963, under the leadership of Reverend M. C. Cleveland, the First Baptist Church became a key meeting spot. It was the first church in Selma to open its doors for the Dallas County Voters League. This group worked to help African Americans register to vote.
A Hub for Civil Rights
For the next two years, the church was a busy center for the Civil Rights Movement. It hosted many important meetings and teaching sessions. The Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), a group of young people leading non-violent protests, used the church often.
Planning Big Events
In late 1964, major meetings were held at the church. People gathered to plan large rallies and demonstrations. These plans led to the famous events of early 1965, which included the historic Selma to Montgomery marches.
Inspiring Speeches
During the early months of 1965, many important leaders visited the church. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Ralph Abernathy often spoke there. They were leaders of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). They spoke nightly to young people gathered at First Baptist Church, inspiring them to join the movement.
Helping the Community
Even after the Selma-to-Montgomery march, the church continued its important work. It remained a main office for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. The church also served as a place to give out food and clothing. This help was for people who had lost their jobs because of their involvement in the Civil Rights Movement.
See also
In Spanish: Primera Iglesia Bautista (Selma) para niños
