Second Baptist Church, Bloomington

Second Baptist Church stands as a historic landmark with its roots deeply embedded in the community's history. Designed by the renowned African-American architect Samuel Plato and constructed in 1913, the church exemplifies the Romanesque Revival style with its distinctive features. The one-story stone building, situated on a raised basement, boasts a unique "L"-plan layout that contributes to its architectural charm.

Notable architectural elements of Second Baptist Church include broad round arched openings, lancet windows, and oculus tracery, which add to its grandeur and visual appeal. The church's two-story bell tower stands as a symbol of its significance within the community, serving as a beacon of faith and unity. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983, Second Baptist Church holds a special place in Bloomington's heritage and continues to be a place of worship, fellowship, and community engagement within the Bloomington West Side Historic District.