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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, the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church.

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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 Martin Luther King Jr.'s pulpit from 1954 to 1960, where he organized the Montgomery Bus Boycott, marking a pivotal moment in American history.

A brief summary to Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

Local tips

  • Visit on a Friday or Saturday when the Parsonage is open for tours; other days are by appointment only.
  • Check the church's website or call ahead for tour schedules and availability.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Civil Rights Memorial and Museum for a comprehensive understanding of the movement.
  • Be aware that bags must be smaller than 9.5 x 8.5 inches to be carried into the Civil Rights Memorial Center.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Alabama State Capitol, walk one block east on Dexter Avenue. The church is located on the left at the corner of Dexter Avenue and Decatur Street. This is a short, easy walk that allows you to appreciate the historical context of the area.

  • Public Transport

    From the Montgomery Regional Airport, take Bus Route 1 toward Downtown Montgomery. Get off at the bus stop near the intersection of Dexter Avenue and South Court Street. From there, walk west on Dexter Avenue to 454 Dexter Ave. A single ride fare on MATS is $1.25.

  • Parking

    If driving, several parking options are available. There's street parking, a parking lot across the street from the church, and a parking garage a few blocks away. Metered street parking is available weekdays from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Parking garages nearby, such as the one on Commerce Street, charge around $1.50 to $3 per hour. Free street parking is available after 5:00 PM and on weekends.

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Discover more about Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church

The Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, located in downtown Montgomery, Alabama, stands as a powerful symbol of the American Civil Rights Movement. Established in 1877 on the site of a former slave trader's pen, the church has been a beacon of hope and a center for social change for over a century. Originally named the Second Colored Baptist Church, it was formed by African Americans seeking spiritual refuge and autonomy after the Civil War. The current red brick building was completed in 1889, and in 1978, the church was renamed to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who pastored here from 1954 to 1960. During his tenure, Dr. King, along with other leaders, organized the Montgomery Bus Boycott in the church's basement in 1955, a watershed event sparked by Rosa Parks' refusal to give up her seat on a city bus. This boycott, lasting over a year, led to the desegregation of Montgomery's public transportation system and propelled Dr. King to national prominence. The church itself is a beautiful example of late Victorian architecture and holds significant historical artifacts, including a mural depicting Dr. King's journey in the Civil Rights Movement. Visitors can tour the sanctuary and learn about the church's role in shaping American history. The Dexter Parsonage Museum, located nearby, was home to twelve of the church’s pastors, including Dr. King, and offers further insight into his life and work. Today, the church continues its legacy of community service and social justice initiatives, welcoming people of all backgrounds.

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