Aiken City Council Discusses Friendship Baptist Church Designation

News Summary

The Aiken City Council is set to discuss proposed changes to the historic designation of Friendship Baptist Church, a significant community landmark. The church, established in 1866, has a deep connection to the local history. Leaders aim to reclassify certain buildings, sparking a debate among council members and residents. The meeting is scheduled for January 27, and public input will be welcomed as the community explores ways to preserve its heritage while addressing future needs.

Aiken City Council Weighs Changes for Friendship Baptist Church Designation

This town of Aiken is buzzing with excitement as the City Council is gearing up to discuss significant changes to the historic designation of the beloved Friendship Baptist Church. Founded way back in 1866 by former slaves, this church isn’t just a building – it’s a vital part of the community’s heart and soul.

Location, Location, Location!

The church is situated at the southeastern corner of Richland Avenue (U.S. Route 78) and Kershaw Street, proudly standing as a symbol of resilience and community spirit. The original structure was tragically lost to a fire, but a new sanctuary was built in 1894, and ever since, the church has been a focal point for residents near and far.

A Church Complex with a Rich History

Today, the church complex consists of three important buildings: the sanctuary, a dedicated administrative office that once served as a parsonage (built in 1920), and the N.L. Bush Activity Building, which was constructed in 1939 and given a facelift in 1974. Each building has a story to tell, and each contributes to the overall identity of Friendship Baptist.

What’s Up for Discussion?

Here’s where it gets really interesting! The church’s leadership has proposed to change the designation of the former parsonage to a contributing property and the Bush building to a non-contributing property on the city’s historic register. This is no simple matter; it’s destined to spark some debate at the upcoming City Council meeting scheduled for January 27.

City Council Meeting Agenda

At this meeting, the City Council will take into consideration recommendations made by two of its boards regarding these changes. On January 14, the Aiken Planning Commission unanimously suggested adjusting the designation, while the Design Review Board stood firm in wanting to maintain the existing designation. Talk about a split decision!

A Historic Landmark

The Friendship African Baptist Church Complex has already been recognized as a landmark property, being added to the historic register back in 1994. With plans to build a new administrative facility, church leadership aims to ensure it’s accessible for its aging members, making it more user-friendly while keeping the peace and the history intact.

Keeping History Alive

One of the key points in this discussion revolves around the parsonage’s historic ties, particularly its connection to the Schofield Normal and Industrial School. Some residents are understandably concerned that changes to the parsonage’s designation might risk losing this vital piece of history. What’s on the table is potentially impactful – if designated as a contributing property, the parsonage could secure tax credits for renovations, allowing for some internal reworking that strays from its original state.

More on the Agenda

The stables at 525 Laurens St. S.W. are also under discussion, with city boards unable to agree on the right designation. Adding to the excitement, the city manager is expected to provide updates on recovery efforts from Tropical Storm Helene during the same council meeting.

Getting Involved

This is your chance, Aiken residents! The council meeting is slated for 7 p.m., with a worksession beforehand at 6 p.m. at the Municipal Building on Chesterfield Street. There will also be two public comment periods, giving residents the opportunity to voice their thoughts on non-agenda items.

So mark your calendars and get ready to join the conversation about preserving the history of Friendship Baptist Church while also paving the way for its future!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Augusta Launches Black History Calendar for 2025
Friendship Baptist Church Faces Historic Designation Challenge

Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: Aiken Friendship Baptist Hitchcock Stables
• Post and Courier: Aiken Friendship Baptist Church Changes
• Legacy: Barbara Harris Obituary
• Glbright Harp Mortuary: John Simmons Obituary
• Wikipedia: Friendship Baptist Church
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Friends Church
• Google Search: Friendship Baptist Church
• Google News: Friendship Baptist Church