Founded in 1805, Huntsville is home to many of the areas oldest churches. For this post I photographed several of them using a similar style. The buildings are shown from newest to oldest based on the age of the building, not the congregation.
First Baptist
By far the youngest building in this list, First Baptist is a prominent feature of the Huntsville skyline. The Church features a 229′ steeple which houses a 48-bell carillon. The carillon chime marks the hour and the bells are pealed for special occasions. The mosaic which adorns the facade of the sanctuary was created by artist Gordon Smith, of Smith Stained Glass Studios, Fort Worth, Texas. This art work began in 1966 and was finished in 1973. The Christ figure in the mural stands 43 feet high, the head is more than 5 feet high, and each eye in the Christ figure is about 8 inches in diameter. The facade has been designed not only to capture the attention of the eye, but to issue a strong invitation to come inside the church. The church is featured in the video series Spires of Huntsville here.
Temple B’nai Sholom
Temple B’nai Sholom is the oldest synagogue in Alabama in continuous use.
Construction of the Temple began in 1898 and it was dedicated on November 16, 1899.
The Temple was designed by architect R.H. Hunt of Chattanooga. Extensive restoration was completed in 1994.
Church of the Nativity
The present church building, an outstanding example of Gothic Revival architecture, was designed by Frank Wills and Henry Dudley of New York. Erected at a cost of $37,500, it was dedicated Easter Eve, April 13, 1859 and consecrated January 29, 1860.
The original brick church, erected in 1847 stood east of the present structure. The church is featured in the video series Spires of Huntsville here.
First Methodist
The present site of First Methodist was acquired 1832, with the church being completed 1834, The original church was occupied and accidentally burned by Federals 1864. The cornerstone for the present sanctuary was laid in 1867. The sanctuary was dedicated in 1874. The church is featured in the video series Spires of Huntsville here.
First Presbyterian
This site was selected for the first church building, dedicated on Oct 13, 1822. The second and present sanctuary was dedicated on May 18, 1860. The church is featured in the video series Spires of Huntsville here.
