First African Baptist Church and Parsonage

The First African Baptist Church is a wooden frame structure built on brick piers with Gothic Revival details throughout its exterior and interior. The property includes both the main church building and a separate parsonage residence located nearby on the same plot of land.

The church was built around 1905 during a period when African American communities in the South were establishing their own religious institutions following the Civil War. This building represents efforts by Black families to create independent spaces that belonged entirely to them and their faith.

The church functions as a gathering place where members of the community come together for worship and fellowship throughout the year. It represents the spiritual center that African American families built to maintain their faith and connections in this region.

The church building and parsonage are located at separate addresses on Knight Street and Satilla Boulevard in Waycross. Since this is an active place of worship, it is best to visit during scheduled services or by arrangement with the community.

The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003, marking official recognition of its architectural and cultural importance. This designation helped preserve documentation of African American achievements in architecture and community building in this part of Georgia.

Location: Waycross

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

GPS coordinates: 31.21000,-82.34360

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:01