First Baptist Church, Portland

First Baptist Church traces its history to May 5, 1855, when the congregation was organized several years before Oregon became a state. Designed by Warren H. Hayes and completed in 1894, the church is a strong example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. Its sandstone and Rocky Butte stone walls, rounded arches, granite entrance columns, and square bell tower reflect the influence of Trinity Church in Boston.

The sanctuary reflects Hayes's innovative "Diagonal Plan," an amphitheater-style design that was advanced for its time. Fan-shaped pews on gently sloping floors face a corner pulpit beneath a domed ceiling, improving both visibility and acoustics. Timber trusses, carved woodwork, and Povey Brothers stained glass shape the interior, while its acoustics support concerts by groups such as the Portland Baroque Orchestra.

First Baptist Church has remained an active place of worship and community gathering for more than 170 years. Alongside worship services, it hosts educational programs, charitable activities, lectures, and musical performances. Reflecting the area's changing population, the congregation today offers services in both English and Khmer, welcoming members of the local Cambodian community while preserving one of the city's most distinctive historic church buildings.