The 16th Street Baptist Church is a historic church located in the city of Birmingham, Alabama. The church is known for its role in the Civil Rights Movement and the tragic bombing that occurred in 1963. The church was originally built in 1873 and was known as the First Colored Baptist Church. It was later renamed the 16th Street Baptist Church in 1880.
The church played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement in Birmingham. It was a meeting place for civil rights leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr. and Ralph Abernathy. The church was also a center for voter registration drives and other civil rights activities.
On September 15, 1963, a bomb exploded at the church, killing four young girls and injuring many others. The bombing was a turning point in the Civil Rights Movement and led to increased national attention and support for the cause.
Today, the 16th Street Baptist Church is a National Historic Landmark and a symbol of the struggle for civil rights in America. The church continues to serve as a place of worship and a center for community activities. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of the Civil Rights Movement.
