The edifice of Second Baptist (SBC) was designed by renowned architect Paul Revere Williams and built in 1926. SBC is working to raise funds for structural damage to its’ balcony, located in the sanctuary. The project – replacing wooden trusses that have collapsed from wear and tear – is estimated at $1.2 million.
SBC hired John A. Martin and Associates, Inc. (JAMA) in February 2021, to investigate and summarize the damage to the balcony. JAMA has found that two wooden trusses were damaged, and the remaining five trusses need repair. JAMA shored up the first and second trusses, so they do not collapse further.
SBC is raising funds through contributions and grants.To date, SBC has received $200,000 in grants: recipient of the National Trust for Historic Preservation grant awarded last month, and the Council District 9 Community Grant awarded in May.
SBC is now applying to the National Park Service – Historic Preservation Fund. We thank Council member Curren Price and the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing the historic value of maintaining and restoring Second Baptist Church.
The church, established in 1885, has had an uninterrupted presence in the greater Los Angeles community and continues to serve the needs of its changing demographics. SBC’s rich history of social justice advocacy and humanitarian outreach continues today.
It was home to Congresswoman Juanita Millender McDonald, attorney Johnny Cochran, Jr., and U.S. Surgeon General David Satcher. Also, SBC is listed as a LosAngeles Historic-Cultural Monument and National Register of Historic Places.
To contribute to this project with a donation, please follow the link: https://www.givelify.com/donate/second-baptist- church-los-angeles-ca-2j7wy5MzEwODA=/donation/amount
