Yes we have them, and they are grand, each, in their own right. For now, take a look at the Central Baptist Church:
Built in 1926 the circular church is considered noteworthy by the HEPB because:
Central Baptist Church is an excellent example of Neo-Classical design adapted to the Florida climate. Particularly noteworthy is the circular plan, which allows natural ventilation to keep the interior cool during the summer. The church, originally known as First Baptist Church, was organized two days before Miami incorporated in 1896 and houses the oldest Baptist congregation in the city. It remains one of the last active churches to hold regular services in the downtown central business district. Central Baptist Church was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
Interestingly, this is not Miami’s first major church (that still stands). That right is reserved for the Gesu Church, which will be highlighted later.
Image: the pinnacle of the Central Baptist Church
Very interesting article, I’d like to learn more about this, good job!
The church interior is stunning except I couldn’t take pictures. Thanks Kev!
Beautiful building but a really ghetto location
Growing up in NYC I had the notion that no historic buildings existed here in Miami. It’s nice to see one being highlighted here. I’m looking forward to the others.
You’d be surprised. Most of what is our Central Business District is aged 60 to 80 years. Thanks for the comp Maggie!
The UM School of Architecture frequently offers design studios that focus on the historical buildings and sites of downtown Miami. The work they produce ranges from documentation and compositional drawings, structural analysis models, and design proposals for a contemporary “Downtown Temple,” which includes research site visits to CBC and Gesu. While they are both excellent buildings, the CBC is not well funded as cannot be maintained as well as it should. Gesu on the other hand is beautifully maintained. Both are worth a visit!
I had no clue about that. That’s really interesting. What’s really amazing is that most Miamians don’t know these neat places exist. Great info Ricardo!
this temple is big beautiful and what the lord has done to this mysterious place thank the lord for what he’s given us
this church will grow and grow because if we have faith that the lord will do what wants to be done then it will be done with the help of his sons and daughters so what ” WWJD ” ?
I grew up in this church. from 1950 to 1971. Went there all my life. It is a wonderul place. I have not seen it for over 40 years. Lots of good memories. Wish I could find some of my old friends from there. If you ever get a chance go see this grand old building. I hope I can see it again someday.
I am trying to locate a man with the first name of Wallace or Wally who attended Central Baptist Church in Miami, Florida in the 1950′s. I do not have a last name for him – in fact, that is what I am trying to obtain. Wally would have been in his twenties at the time. Do you have any recollection of this person? Any assistance you can give me would be very much appreciated.
This is my home church and just a blessing to each and everyone that comes to the house of the Lord. The people at Central are just like family to me. Hope not only that people will admire the majestic architecture of the building itself but to come and experience the love of God.
I grew up at Central Baptist Church and was a member from the time I was born in 1950 until I got married there in 1971.
I have the fondest memories possible of this great church.
My mother was the church hostess, prepared the meals for many years. My pastor while I was a child was Dr. C. Roy Angell.
Who was as his name implied an Angel on this earth.
Never have I known a more wonderul pastor than Dr. Angell.
During those days, the church flourished and was absolutely wonderful. I am thankful that Central Baptist Church is part of my heritage.
God Bless the members now and may it continue to do the work of the Lord.
Ahh, this church is actually being used for God’s glory right now. Christ Fellowship is now using it as a Downtown campus and so many great things have sprung from this church. Check it out sometime!! http://www.cfmiami.org