Calvary Baptist Church

Calvary Baptist Church is a two-story brick building with Neoclassical design located in downtown Wichita. The symmetric facade features columns, arched windows, and detailed ornamentation that reflect the quality of early African American construction work.

The building was constructed in 1917 by members of a Black Baptist congregation who worked nights and weekends to build their place of worship. It served the community as a gathering place until 1975, when it transitioned to its current role as a museum.

The building served as the heart of Wichita's Black community, hosting religious gatherings, celebrations, and social meetings throughout the decades. The exhibits today tell stories of African American life, contributions, and traditions in Kansas.

The building is centrally located in downtown Wichita and easy to reach on foot, with rooms and corridors that are comfortable to explore at a leisurely pace. Visitors should contact ahead to confirm hours and tour availability, as they may vary seasonally.

The construction was led by Black professionals, including the architect, making it a rare example of Black independence in the early 1900s. This fact stands out when examining the building's craftsmanship, as visitors often encounter few structures built entirely under African American direction during this era.

Location: Wichita

Inception: 1920s

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

Floors above the ground: 2

Made from material: brick

Address: 601 North Water Street

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Friday 09:00-17:00; Saturday 12:00-16:00

GPS coordinates: 37.69500,-97.33960

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:42