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Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church: A Civil Rights Landmark

Walk in the footsteps of Martin Luther King Jr. at this pivotal Civil Rights landmark, where history and hope converge in downtown Montgomery.

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The Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, is a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement. Founded in 1877, it served as a pivotal organizing location, particularly during Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s tenure as pastor from 1954 to 1960, and stands steps away from the Alabama State Capitol.

A brief summary to Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on Friday or Saturday when the Parsonage is open for tours to get a more complete historical perspective.
  • Check the church's website for the latest information on tour availability and any COVID-19 related guidelines.
  • Allow ample time to explore both the church and the nearby Civil Rights Memorial and Museum to fully appreciate the history of the area.
  • Consider taking a virtual tour online if you are unable to visit in person.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Alabama State Capitol, walk one block east on Dexter Avenue. The church is on the left, at the corner of Dexter Avenue and Decatur Street. This short walk allows you to appreciate the historical context of the area. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Montgomery Regional Airport, take Bus Route 1 toward Downtown Montgomery. Get off near Dexter Avenue and South Court Street, then walk west on Dexter Avenue. The church is a short walk away at 454 Dexter Ave. A single ride on MATS is $1.25.

  • Parking

    Several parking options are available near the church. There's a parking lot across the street, street parking on both sides of the church, and a parking garage a few blocks away on Commerce Street. Metered street parking is available weekdays (8 AM - 5 PM). It's free after 5 PM and on weekends. Parking garages charge around $1-3 per hour.

Unlock the Best of Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

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Discover more about Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

Located in the heart of downtown Montgomery, Alabama, the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church is more than a place of worship; it's a living testament to the Civil Rights Movement. Established in 1877 on the site of a former slave trader's pen, the church, originally named the Second Colored Baptist Church, provided a haven for African Americans seeking spiritual refuge and autonomy after the Civil War. The red brick structure that stands today was completed in 1889, and in 1978, the church was renamed to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who pastored the church from 1954 to 1960. During his time there, Dr. King led the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a watershed moment in the fight against segregation. The church served as a central meeting place for organizers and a symbol of hope for the community. Its proximity to the Alabama State Capitol underscores the intersection of faith and politics during the Civil Rights Movement. Today, the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church continues to be an active congregation, carrying on the legacy of its past leaders and serving as a vital force for positive change. Visitors can tour the church, including Dr. King's former office in the basement, and the adjacent Dexter Parsonage Museum, which showcases the lives of the church's pastors and their families. The church stands as a powerful reminder of the courage and determination of those who fought for equality and justice in America.

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