Was Liberty Baptist Church always this grand? Of course not. The Liberty Baptist Church, right here in front of us, had a much humbler beginning. It started in 1917 with two women, Mrs. Bertie Boone and Mrs. Maggie Walker. They began a social club in Mrs. Boone’s home. They called it the Olive Leaf Club. But they soon felt a higher calling. They realized the growing community needed a church.
The Liberty Baptist Church was officially founded in 1919 with Rev. D.W. Bowen as its first pastor. The church quickly grew, establishing a Sunday school, a youth group, a missionary society, and a choir. The congregation eventually moved to a larger location on South Dearborn Street. They later merged with two other churches under the leadership of their fourth pastor, Rev. D.Z. Jackson. The church continued to thrive, and under Rev. Jackson’s guidance, they laid the groundwork for a magnificent new structure at 49th and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive.
This striking building, with its unique arch-like design, was completed in 1956. Sadly, Rev. D.Z. Jackson passed away before seeing his vision fully realized. His son, Rev. A. P. Jackson, took up the mantle and led the church for the next forty-three years. He continued his father’s legacy. Under his leadership, Liberty Baptist Church became a beacon of hope and a center for social activism.
The Liberty Baptist Church has witnessed history unfold. It became a key location during the Civil Rights movement. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. himself held meetings and rallies within these walls. Can you imagine the energy and the passion within these walls during those times? Even today, the Liberty Baptist Church remains a pillar of strength and faith in the community. It stands as a testament to the vision of its founders and the unwavering spirit of its congregation.