St. Ruth Missionary Baptist Church 🇺🇸

If you are exploring the rich history of Dania Beach, Florida, a visit to St. Ruth Missionary Baptist Church offers a meaningful window into the area's past. Founded in 1908 by Charlie Chambers, who named the institution after his daughter, this historic site holds a monumental place in local history as the very first black church in Dania. Beyond its spiritual roots, the church holds a proud educational legacy, having housed the town's first "colored" school, which initially opened its doors to just nine students.

As you take in the site, you can reflect on its incredible resilience over the decades. The original sanctuary, built on NW 4th Avenue by Chambers and a few devoted followers, was famously constructed using salvaged lumber gathered directly from the Atlantic Ocean. After moving to NW 5th Avenue in 1920, the structure was completely destroyed by the devastating 1926 Miami hurricane, only to be faithfully rebuilt by its dedicated community. The site continued to evolve, erecting a new building in 1957 and being shaped by long-standing leaders like Pastor W.C.

Edcar, who served from 1948 until 1992. It stands today as a testament to faith, community spirit, and historical perseverance.

What to see at St. Ruth Missionary Baptist Church

• Dania's first black church, founded in 1908 by Charlie Chambers
• Housed the town's first "colored" school, starting with just nine students
• Original sanctuary was built using salvaged lumber from the Atlantic Ocean
• Rebuilt by the community after being destroyed in the 1926 Miami hurricane

Visiting tips

Take time to reflect on the church's impressive story of resilience, from its ocean-salvaged lumber origins to its rebuilding after the 1926 hurricane.

How long: 1 hour · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

St. Ruth Missionary Baptist Church is easy to reach on Fort Lauderdale’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church and SS Copenhagen (1898). For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Fort Lauderdale travel guide.