The 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, has a long and storied history, deeply intertwined with the African American community and the civil rights movement. Here's a comprehensive look at its history:
Founding and Early Years
The church was founded in 1873 as the First Colored Baptist Church of Birmingham. The name was later changed to 16th Street Baptist Church, reflecting its location. Initially, the church served as a spiritual and social center for Birmingham's African American community, providing a space for worship, education, and community events.
Role in the Civil Rights Movement
By the mid-20th century, the 16th Street Baptist Church had become a central meeting place for civil rights activists. Leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Reverend Ralph Abernathy, and Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth frequently held meetings and rallies there. The church's strategic location in downtown Birmingham made it an ideal hub for organizing protests and marches.
The 1963 Bombing
The most infamous and tragic event in the church's history occurred on September 15, 1963. At 10:22 AM, a bomb planted by members of the Ku Klux Klan exploded, killing four African American girls:
- Addie Mae Collins (14)
- Cynthia Wesley (14)
- Carole Robertson (14)
- Denise McNair (11)
The explosion also injured 22 others. This act of terror was intended to intimidate the African American community and disrupt the civil rights movement. Instead, it had the opposite effect, galvanizing national and international outrage and strengthening resolve within the movement.
The same day, more violence ensued in Birmingham, resulting in the deaths of two African American boys:
- Virgil Ware (13) was shot by white teenagers while riding his bicycle.
- Johnny Robinson (16) was shot by police during a protest.
Aftermath and Legacy
The bombing had a profound impact on the nation and became a catalyst for the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The tragedy drew attention to the systemic racism and violence faced by African Americans and intensified efforts to end segregation and promote equality.
In the years following the bombing, the 16th Street Baptist Church continued to be a symbol of resilience and hope. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2006 and continues to serve as a place of worship and a monument to the struggle for civil rights.
Bill Greason's Visit
In a poignant turn of events, Bill Greason, a pioneering African American pitcher in Major League Baseball and a Baptist minister, made a surprise visit to the 16th Street Baptist Church today. Greason was in town to throw out the first pitch for a tribute to the Negro League game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the San Francisco Giants at Rickwood Field. His visit to the church served as a powerful reminder of the progress made since the dark days of segregation and racial violence, and his presence brought a message of resilience, hope, and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.
Present Day
Today, the 16th Street Baptist Church stands as a testament to the courage and determination of those who fought for civil rights. It remains a functioning church, continuing to serve its congregation and community. The church also houses a memorial to the four girls killed in the bombing, ensuring that their memory and the lessons of that tragic day are not forgotten.