West Side Unity Church

A beacon of faith. That’s how many describe the West Side Unity Church in Detroit. Nestled in the heart of the city, the West Side Unity Church has a rich history. It all began with a small group of eight devout Christians. They held prayer meetings and Bible study sessions in their homes on Detroit’s west side. One of their first meeting places was the home of Mr. and Mrs. Atticus Kemp at 7693 Central. Later, the meetings moved to the home of Rev. and Mrs. Fluker at 7595 Central. The group expanded to eighteen members. In December 1926, they decided to formalize their gathering. Mrs. Rosebud Smith suggested the name “Unity Baptist Church,” a name that resonated with the group’s desire for togetherness and shared faith. Rev. O. C. White was elected as their first Moderator. The West Side Unity Church, then known as Unity Baptist Church, was officially born. Under the leadership of Rev. James S. Murray, elected in 1927, the congregation initially worshipped in the basement of the Fluker’s home. That same year, the church found its first building at 7513 Bryden, at the corner of Bryden and Roy Street. The West Side Unity Church continued to grow, witnessing a series of pastors who guided the congregation. Rev. J. H. Hankerson served from 1937 to 1939, followed by Rev. James J. Goss from 1939 to 1945. Then came Rev. Clarence E. Palmer in 1945. During his time, the church acquired the Oakland Bank Building at 7527 Tireman and American. They renovated it to become their new home, affectionately known as the “Old Bank Building.” The West Side Unity Church continued to evolve under the leadership of Rev. Clarence Bolden in 1947 and then Rev. A. Daniel James, who served from 1948 to 1962. After Rev. James, the church faced a period of financial hardship and lacked a pastor. Deacon Rufus Jackson and other church officers stepped in to lead the congregation. The West Side Unity Church is a testament to the power of faith and community. It grew from humble beginnings in a private home to a thriving congregation in its own dedicated space.