First African Baptist Church
23 Montgomery Street Savannah, GA 31401
Tour Schedule: Tuesday – Saturday: 11:00am, 2:00pm & 4:00pm Sunday: 1:00pm.
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A Historic Church with Powerful Roots
This historic landmark, built in the 1850s to house the first black church in the United States, still stands on Montgomery Street across from Franklin Square. The First African Baptist Church has origins that date back to 1773, even before the birth date of America.
The church served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, concealing runaway slaves in a small space beneath the floorboards during the Civil War. Holes in the floor formed in tribal shapes served as air holes for the people that hid there, and they still exist today. Some of the original pews, built by slaves, are still located in the upstairs balcony and the stained-glass windows date back to 1885.
John P. Rousakis Riverfront Plaza is also nearby if you are looking for a walk and Savannah's Candy Kitchen is close as well if you're looking for a sweet treat.