Pilgrim Baptist Church (Saint Paul, Minnesota) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Pilgrim Baptist Church
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![]() Pilgrim Baptist Church in 2012
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Location | 732 Central Avenue West Saint Paul, Minnesota |
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Built | 1928 |
Architect | L. W. Baumeister |
Architectural style | Romanesque |
NRHP reference No. | 91000438 |
Added to NRHP | April 16, 1991 |
The Pilgrim Baptist Church is a very important building in Saint Paul, Minnesota. It is home to the first African American Baptist church group in the city. This church has a rich history, starting with a brave journey by people seeking freedom. The current church building was built in 1928. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is recognized as a special place in American history.
Contents
The Story of Pilgrim Baptist Church
A Journey to Freedom
The church group was started on November 15, 1866. It was founded by Reverend Robert Hickman. He was joined by a group of people who had escaped slavery. They came from Boone County, Missouri. These brave people were secretly brought up the Mississippi River. They traveled on a steamboat called the War Eagle. They got help from soldiers who fought for the Union during the American Civil War. They also got help from the Underground Railroad. The Underground Railroad was a secret network of safe places and routes. It helped enslaved people find freedom.
Building a Community
After arriving in Saint Paul, this group of people worked hard to build their community. They formed the first African American Baptist church in the city. The church became a central place for its members. It offered spiritual guidance and a strong sense of belonging. It helped people connect and support each other.
The Church Building
The building you see today was finished in 1928. It was designed by an architect named L. W. Baumeister. The building's style is called Romanesque. This style often uses round arches and strong, solid walls. The church stands at 732 Central Avenue West in Saint Paul. It continues to be a place of worship and community.