Ebenezer Baptist Church 🇺🇸

When you visit Richmond, Virginia, take time to explore Ebenezer Baptist Church, a prominent Black church located in the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood. Originally built in 1858 as the Third African Baptist Church to relieve overcrowding at First African Baptist Church, this remarkable site renamed itself a year later and has stood as a cornerstone of community history ever since. As part of a National Register of Historic Places district listed since 1976, the site features historical marker SA-96.

When viewing the building, you can admire architectural updates made in the early 20th century by architect Charles Thaddeus Russell, who added a distinctive cupola featuring four spires. Beyond its striking exterior, you are visiting a landmark deeply tied to education and community progress: in 1866, it opened Richmond's first public school for African-American children, and in 1883, its basement served as the initial home for Hartshorn Memorial College. Figures like Rev.

Peter Randolph—its first African American pastor in 1865—and Rev. Richard Wells helped guide its growth to 1,500 parishioners. Ebenezer continues its civic role today, hosting community discussions like the 2022 Reconnect Jackson Ward project, making it an essential stop.

What to see at Ebenezer Baptist Church

• Built in 1858 in Jackson Ward and listed on the National Register of Historic Places
• Early 20th-century architectural remodeling featuring a cupola with four spires
• Site of Richmond's first public school for African-American children in 1866
• Rich history of notable leaders, including Rev. Peter Randolph and William Lee Taylor
• On-site historical marker SA-96 detailing its rich neighborhood heritage

Visiting tips

Be sure to stop by historical marker SA-96 outside the church to learn about its official designation within the Jackson Ward Historic District.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Ebenezer Baptist Church is easy to reach on Richmond’s public transport, and pairs naturally with American Civil War Museum and St. Peter's Church. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Richmond travel guide.