Name:St. Bartley Primitive Baptist Church
Location: Huntsville, Alabama
Date:1808 – Present
Brief History:The original church which was located on the outskirts of Huntsville near present day Governors Drive and Madison Street. It was destroyed by fire during the Union occupation. However, it was rebuilt in 1872 with money appropriated by the US congress. The church originally was comprised of enslaved blacks whom were shepherded by William Harris a free black man. Early church services were held at night due to it being against the law for slaves to voice their concerns about their living conditions and desire for freedom. The current church building under the name sake of its second pastor opened its doors in 1965 for Sunday services
Name:Salem Baptist Church
Location: Alton, Illiniois
Date:1819 – Present
Brief History:The church was constructed by stone mason Madison Banks, and white contractor Samuel Marshall. In addition to these two men, they sequestered the assistance of two members of the congregation, John Walker and William Emery. Due to racial laws, blacks were not afforded the same rights that of whites. Therefore, the facility served as not only a place of worship but as a place for social meetings, cultural and community involvement. The congregation built a new structure in 1912, which was called “black” church being that a white church held the same name. Nevertheless, the congregation were instrumental in bringing the communities together with annual picnics, and other civil activities. By the 1960’s due to decline in population within the area, the congregation body also declined. Notwithstanding, the church was added to the National Register of Historic Places thus preserving the building and the immediate grounds.