Birmingham Church Receives National Preservation Award
Birmingham, Alabama – The Sixteenth Street Baptist Church was honored this week at a ceremony that recognized its significant contributions to historic preservation. The church was one of only ten recipients to receive a National Preservation Award for 2024, specifically the Trustees’ Emeritus Award for historic site stewardship, making it the only institution in the United States to achieve this recognition.
The award was presented during a ceremony held on Tuesday in New Orleans, which also marked the beginning of the 2024 PastForward Conference. This event brings together leaders and advocates in the preservation field, showcasing their achievements and methods of revitalization. Carol Quillen, the president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, praised the awardees, stating, “In our continued effort to celebrate the power of place, we gather at this PastForward Conference to honor some of the most effective leaders in the field of preservation.”
A Historical Beacon of Hope
Known for its profound history, the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church played a critical role during the civil rights movement of the 1960s. It was a hub for organizing protests against institutionalized racism in Birmingham, serving as the site for mass meetings and rallies. One of the most tragic events linked to the church was the Ku Klux Klan bombing in 1963, which claimed the lives of four young girls and galvanized the movement for civil rights, eventually leading to the signing of the 1964 Civil Rights Act by President Lyndon Johnson.
Today, the church not only stands as a historical landmark but continues to serve as a dynamic facility for the community and visitors. More than 100,000 tourists visit annually to engage with its educational resources and multi-media museum experiences dedicated to the bombing, its aftermath, and the church’s architectural significance, designed by African American architect W. A. Rayfield.
Community Commitment
The Rev. Arthur Price Jr., the church’s pastor, expressed gratitude upon receiving the award, stating, “We are deeply honored to accept this recognition on behalf of the Birmingham community. Our sanctuary is a sacred space in every sense, and we are proud to continue on its legacy and history.” This acknowledgment not only celebrates the church’s past but also its ongoing efforts in community service and cultural education.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation recognized the church as a “shining example” of how historic sites can play a pivotal role in cultural revitalization and social activism. The persistent dedication to preserving the memory and lessons of the past serves as a model for other institutions across the country.
Looking Ahead
As the community reflects on this recognition, it is also a moment to look forward. Sixteenth Street Baptist Church is committed to enhancing its educational initiatives and expanding outreach to ensure that the stories of bravery and resilience are told for generations to come.
Whether you are a local resident or a visitor traveling to Birmingham, the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church stands as a symbol of strength and remembrance, reminding everyone of the importance of preserving the past while fostering a hopeful future.
