Skip to main content

Calvary Baptist Church (Spokane, Wash.) Records

 Collection
Identifier: PNW -8

Scope and Contents

Records of the oldest African American church in the state of Washington (founded in 1890).

Dates

  • Creation: 1898-2010

Language of Materials

Materials are inEnglish.

Conditions Governing Access

Collection is open for research use.

Historical Note

Calvary Baptist Church in Spokane, founded on February 16, 1890, is the oldest black church in the state of Washington. The first edifice was located on the corner of Pines Street and Fourth Avenue, moved to 168 S. Howard St. in 1895, then to 426 E. Third Avenue in 1897, and finally to 213 E. Third Avenue in 1912. In 1948 a new parsonage was finished and dedicated. From 1890 to 1919 several pastors served Calvary. Then came a period when the church went for several years without a pastor. It was rejuvenated with the arrival of the Rev. Emmett B. Reed from Butte, Montana. He spearheaded a drive to build a new sanctuary for which ground was broken in 1927. Enduring the Great Depression, the church members managed to pay off a heavy debt. They celebrated by buying new pews for their church. The Rev. C. W. Andrews, first came to Calvary Baptist Church as its interim pastor in 1974. His 23rd anniversary as pastor was celebrated May 2-3, 1998.

Extent

1.5 linear ft. (2 boxes)

Abstract

Records of the oldest African American church in the state of Washington (founded in 1890). While the minutes of the church governing board are not present, nevertheless, considerably useful information is present in the file.

Custodial History

Calvary Baptist Church; 203 E. 3rd Ave.; Spokane, WA 99202; 509-747-8793

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Acquired August 2003

Title
Guide to the Calvary Baptist Church (Spokane, Wash.) Records
Date
© 2003
Description rules
Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Language of description
English
Script of description
Code for undetermined script
Language of description note
Finding aid written in English.

Repository Details

Part of the Whitworth University Archives and Special Collections Repository

Contact:
300 W Hawthorne Rd
Spokane WA 99251 USA
509-777-4481