First Missionary Baptist Church, Hayneville

A photo of the First Missionary Baptist Church in Hayneville, AL.

NPS/BrittanyAnn Robinson

Quick Facts

Location:

361 Pine Street, Hayneville, AL 36040

Significance:

The Lowndes County Freedom Organization’s primary election were held at First Missionary Baptist Church and were a historic moment for the local Black community.

OPEN TO PUBLIC:

No

MANAGED BY:

First Missionary Baptist Church

In 1966, the First Missionary Baptist Church served as the site of the Lowndes County Freedom Organization (LCFO) Candidate Nomination Convention, where Black residents of the county, many voting for the first time, gathered to select candidates who would challenge the deeply entrenched White power structure.

The LCFO, known for its use of the Black Panther as its symbol, was formed in response to the overwhelming disenfranchisement of African Americans in Lowndes County. Despite comprising over 80 percent of the population, Black residents had been systematically denied the right to vote through intimidation, violence, and discriminatory laws. The creation of the LCFO gave Black citizens an organized political force, allowing them to field candidates for offices such as Sheriff, School Board members, Board of Revenue, Tax Collectors, and Coroner.

The LCFO’s primary elections, held at First Missionary Baptist Church, were a historic moment for the Black community. It was the first time many African Americans in Lowndes County were able to exercise their right to vote, and the church became a symbol of empowerment and hope. In November 1966, seven African American candidates were chosen to run against White incumbents, marking a dramatic shift in the political landscape of the county. Although facing significant opposition, the LCFO’s efforts helped lay the foundation for greater Black political participation and representation in Lowndes County.