First African Baptist Church

The First African Baptist Church is deeply rooted in history and is officially the oldest African American Church in America. The Church was originally christened as First Colored Baptist Church in December 1777. Andrew Bryan, David George and George Leile are credited with the founding efforts of the Church. George Leile is also acknowledged as the first Black Baptist Pastor ordained on May 20, 1775 in Georgia.

Historians hold that the first congregation of black Baptist was held in Silver Bluff in the year 1773 on the Galphin Plantation which was about 14 miles to the northwest of Savannah. Rev.Wait Palmer and George Leile were largely instrumental in bringing about this first congregation.

Though in a small way, the congregation flourished in the plantation with Galphin allowing his slaves to worship under David George’s leadership. David George who was himself a slave was baptized and received training at the hands of Leile.

Acquainting with the church

http://www.theoldestblackchurch.org/

Wiki resources about the church

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_African_Baptist_Church_(Savannah

The beginning of the 19th century brought further consolidation for the Church and a second colored Church and Ogeecchee Baptist Church were born. However, in 1822 the First colored Baptist Church and the Second Colored Baptist Church combined to become the First African Baptist Church. In North America, the first Black Sunday School was established at this church in1826.

You can refer to Savannah GA travel guide to obtain denomination information and schedule of services at the Church. The official web site of the Church can also be accessed through the web link furnished on this page to learn more. To understand and appreciate deeper history of this Church please refer to web pages on Savannah GA travel info.

Official website of the church

http://www.fabc-joy.org/

Hotels near First African Church

http://www.savannahtripplanner.com/Savannah/browse/attractions/First-African-Baptist-Church/hotels-nearby