First African Baptist Church

The oldest Black Baptist congregation in North America, organized in 1773 — a living monument to African American faith and freedom.

First African Baptist Church holds the distinction of being the oldest African American Baptist congregation in North America, organized in 1773 by David George and his congregation. The current building on Franklin Square, completed in 1859, was built almost entirely by enslaved Africans and free Black people using hand-carved pews and brickwork. The church served as a crucial station on the Underground Railroad, and holes drilled in the floor in African diamond patterns concealed freedom seekers in the crawl space below. Today the church remains an active congregation and offers guided tours.

History

Organized in 1773 by David George, an enslaved man who became a pioneering Baptist preacher. The congregation met clandestinely for decades before constructing their first permanent building. The current 1859 structure was built by enslaved and free Black laborers. During the Civil War, the church hosted some of the earliest meetings between Union General William T. Sherman and Black community leaders, including the historic January 1865 meeting that preceded Special Field Orders No. 15 (the '40 acres and a mule' order).

Quick Facts

Founded

1773

Building completed

1859

Built by

Enslaved and free Black laborers

Significance

Oldest Black Baptist congregation in North America

Underground Railroad

Active hiding site; diamond-pattern floor holes