Andrew Bryan, a former slave, organized in Savannah one of the earliest black Baptist churches in North America. Bryan had developed his preaching skills while a slave in Chatham County and put those skills to greater use upon purchasing his freedom. In 1788, Bryan formed a congregation which was chartered under the name of the First Bryan Baptist Church. For many years, this congregation played a significant role in the affairs of the Savannah black community. In 1793, Bryan obtained the lot where the First Bryan Baptist Church (pictured above), constructed in 1873, now stands. A dispute over doctrine in 1832 caused a schism, resulting in two congregations. The congregations of the First Bryan Baptist Church and the First African Baptist Church, constructed in 1859, are direct descendants of Bryan's original congregation.

LOCATION

First Bryan is at 575 West Bryan Street and First African at 23 Montgomery Street, Franklin Square, in Savannah.

CLIMATE, RECOMMENDED CLOTHING

Hot and humid in summer, mild to chilly and breezy in winter. Rainy periods throughout the year. Wear comfortable sportswear in season, with walking shoes. Insect repellant is strongly recommended.

DIRECTIONS

From I-95, exit onto I-16 east. Downtown Savannah is 10 miles ahead off of I-16.

TELEPHONE

First Bryan: (912) 233-5526

First African: (912) 233-6597

OPERATING HOURS

First Bryan is open daily from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Guided and self-guided tours are available.

First African is open on Friday 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Other visitations are available by appointment.

TRANSPORTATION

Bus: Greyhound Bus Lines serve Savannah. Taxi Service is available from the bus station to downtown Savannah.

Air: Large airlines carriers operate in Savannah. Car rental is available at the airport.

ADJACENT VISITOR ACTIVITIES

  Fort Pulaski

  Historic Savannah

  Wormsloe Plantation

  King-Tisdell Cottage.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

On the World Wide Web, more information on historic sites and other attractions can be found at Savannah Online.