5 Historic Churches in Huntsville

5 Historic Churches in Huntsville

One thing you’ll notice driving down any back road of Huntsville (or any street in the South for that matter) are several historic places of worship. Church building to church building lines the streets, contributing again to the diverse culture of the city. Whether you’re from a particular religious background or eager to learn, one can definitely appreciate the details hidden across Huntsville.

Here are a few to get you started exploring – look for a Part 2 coming soon!

A Mosaic Masterpiece – First Baptist Church

On Governors Drive in the heart of Huntsville stands First Baptist Church – the oldest Baptist church (Missionary) in Alabama! Many passersby and attendees will agree that the exterior mural of Jesus is sure to grab your attention with bright colors and thousands of mosaic tiles. Pastor Travis Collins shares an insightful backstory on the selection of artwork and glass pieces being purposeful; View the video for the full mural before it undergoing renovation- “More than a Mosaic.” Each imperfect tile makes up much more than an original piece. He states, “The more pieces we have, the more diversity we have, the more energy we have, the stronger the individual pieces become. And the more beautiful the image of Jesus we create.” Its large archways cascade along the front of the building (truly a masterpiece standing underneath them). 

Renewed through Renovation – St. Bartley Primitive Baptist Church

First known as Huntsville African Baptist Church, St. Bartley Primitive Baptist Church is known as the oldest African American congregation in Alabama (1820). The original framework of the church was built right on Huntsville Hospital’s land in the Old Georgia Graveyard. The current location of St. Bartley Primitive Baptist Church was renovated in 2019 by Huntsville’s own Chapman Sisson Architects! Upon visiting, you’ll find yourself walking the halls of new technology, lighting, shades of sage and purple, and updated construction that reflects the heart of the community. 

Stories of Stained Glass – First Christian Church 

Walking inside of the sanctuary is the best way to see First Christian Church’s intricate stained glass artwork beautifully designed by artist Conchita Reyes of Lawrence, Kansas and crafted by Lumpkin Stained Glass Co. in Huntsville, AL. Many of the stained glass windows represent a specific story from the Bible and a highlight of the history of Huntsville (See the window with the Rocket and planets on the far left)! Reyes notes, “Artistic work of this nature originates with research scripture, followed by research of animals, plants, customs, implements, musical instruments, etc. recorded from biblical times.” Early July of 1947, First Christian Church began with a small group of members at the Central YMCA. The original location was built on Bob Wallace Ave., and the current location is now on Whitesburg Dr.

Beautiful Venue – First United Methodist

Take a stroll right up the street from Honest Coffee downtown on Clinton Ave. and you’ll run straight into First United Methodist Church, a charming white chapel seated on the corner of Greene Street. You can’t miss the stately three-story building, lined with several windows, black lanterns, and arched stained glass panes. If you’re on the hunt for a wedding venue you’ll definitely want to consider this chapel. Fun fact: the church was noted to actually have been found during Thomas Jefferson’s presidency!

Jewish History – Temple B’nai Sholom 

Temple B’nai Sholom (meaning “Sons of Peace”) is known as the oldest synagogue in Alabama that is still frequented to this day, centering around Jewish heritage, traditions and other events. The brick framework designed by R.H.Hunt of Chattanooga, is a Romanesque Revival style, fabricated with multiple white steeples with ornate stained glass detail inside. Huntsville architect and historian Harvie Jones described its unique detail that can only be truly experienced inside, “The interior space of Temple B’nai Sholom is unusual, unexpected and beautiful. It is a sophisticated exercise in the use of geometry for symbolism and vitality.”