Charlotte, NC: Arts Abounds at Spirit Square

First Baptist Church, erected in the early 1900’s, was designed by J.M. McMichael of Harrisburg, PA.  The central element of the structure (which has no steeple) is the Byzantine dome, similar to New York City’s Madison Square Presbyterian Church. 

Church goers marveled at the stained glass windows, as you will. One window on the south side of the sanctuary was donated by Vinton Liddell in honor of his father, W. J. F. Liddell.

Originally doubtful that the acoustics would be sufficient for even being able to hear a sermon in the church, but the acoustics did work!  The sound of the music was glorious and the sermons reverberated like music to the ear. 

In 1975, the old building was destined for destruction.  A local  chairwoman of the Board of County Commissioners Liz Hair, gathered ‘troops’ to rally and was able to save the building from destruction.  First Baptist Church is now the main performance hall for Spirit Square, a popular Uptown center for the arts.  

Visit www.BlumenthalCenter.org and plan to see a performance in the intimacy of McGlohon Theatre at Spirit Square—hear the wonderful acoustics for yourself!