::  Central Baptist Church
500 NE 1st Avenue
Year Built: 1926
Architects/Builder: Dougherty and Gardner/Fred T. Ley and Co., Inc.
Date Designated: 1988

a. Central Baptist Church is an excellent example of Neo-Classical design adapted to the Florida climate. Particularly noteworthy is the circular plan, which allows natural ventilation to keep the interior cool during the summer. The church, originally known as First Baptist Church, was organized two days before Miami incorporated in 1896 and houses the oldest Baptist congregation in the city. It remains one of the last active churches to hold regular services in the downtown central business district. Central Baptist Church was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.

b. Historic photograph of Central
Baptist Church, circa 1930.