By Ashton Gray
Union Baptist Church, founded in 1895, holds a significant place in history as one of the oldest religious establishments established by African-Americans during the late 19th century in Gadsden, Alabama. Its early origins trace back to its separation from the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, initially gathering in the hall located above Frank Duncan’s downtown store. However, the congregation soon acquired a plot of land on South 6th Street, commonly referred to as “Southside,” where they constructed their place of worship and began serving their thriving community.Southside’s prospects were promising until a tragic turn of events occurred roughly fifty years later. The City of Gadsden, in its “1952 Master Plan,” received substantial federal housing funds earmarked for new housing development. Unfortunately, a “particular community” stood in the path of this progress. Consequently, the Gadsden Housing Authorities compelled over 300 African-American families, along with three churches – Union Baptist, St. John CME, and Grant Chapel AME – to relocate from the southern sector of Gadsden to the northern region, known as Tuscaloosa District #3.
Following this disheartening episode, the area was eventually designated as a “Historic District,” commemorating Confederate history. Regrettably, the structure painstakingly erected by the early members of Union Baptist Church was destroyed, cherished memories were obliterated, and families were cruelly separated. Undoubtedly, this unrecognized and unapologetic event holds historic significance.
One of the notable figures in Union Baptist Church’s history during the Civil Rights Movement was Reverend L.A. Warren. He became the first pastor in Gadsden to open the doors of Union Baptist for MASS MEETINGS and led numerous demonstrations while vowing, “We won’t turn around!” For his selfless acts and many others’ contributions to the community during a time of injustice, Union Baptist Church was rightfully acknowledged and listed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks & Heritage in 2020, an honor well-deserved.
Union Baptist Church has journeyed a long way and continues to move forward under the dedicated leadership of Pastor Ernest G. Benson. We acknowledge that God has indeed been good to us.
For those interested in delving deeper into the history of Union Baptist Church, we invite you to join us on October 8th at 11 AM as we celebrate 128 years of service!