St. Luke Baptist Church

St. Luke Baptist Church is a brick structure in Gothic Revival style located in Marianna, Florida, featuring pointed arch windows, steep gable roofs, and two distinctive towers. The interior is enhanced by stained glass windows that create color and light throughout the sanctuary.

The congregation was established in 1867 and was originally located near the Chipola River. The current brick building was constructed in 1921 under the leadership of Reverend David Britt.

The church served as a center for education and community life, with a theological school established here to train leaders for the Black community of Marianna. Visitors can sense the enduring importance of this space as a gathering place for both spiritual and intellectual growth.

The building sits on East Jackson Street at one of the city's highest elevations, making it easy to spot and access. Visitors should be aware that ongoing restoration work may affect access to certain areas.

Hurricane Michael caused major damage to the building in 2018, yet its sturdy construction allowed it to survive at this exposed location. The church's resilience demonstrates how well the 1921 structure was engineered.

Location: Florida

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

GPS coordinates: 30.77306,-85.22333

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:41