Martin Luther King Jr., a towering figure in the civil rights movement, left an indelible mark on Augusta, Georgia. Known for his commitment to justice and equality, Dr. King’s visits to Augusta were pivotal moments in the city’s history. Whether as a young boy staying with family friends or as a leader inspiring the masses, his connections to Augusta resonate deeply. Here’s how visitors and locals alike can explore these historic ties and the landmarks that keep his legacy alive.
Dr. King’s Early Visits to Augusta
Long before he became the iconic leader of the civil rights movement, Dr. King visited Augusta as a child in the 1930s. The King family would stay with the Bohler family on Phillips Street, a connection rooted in shared faith and deep friendships. In December 2023, a historic marker was placed in front of the Bohler home to commemorate this significant chapter in Dr. King’s early life. Visitors can reflect on these formative years by visiting the marker, which serves as a poignant reminder of his journey from a young boy to a global icon for justice.
Left: The Bohler House at the corner of Hopkins and Phillips Street is where a young Martin Luther King with his family would stay when they visited Augusta in the 1930's. Right: Father Bohler stands in front of the home that he grew up in and the marker that honors his family.Bohler Home Historic Marker
Father Bohler stands in front of the home that he grew up in and the marker that honors his family.
Historic Speeches in Augusta
Dr. King’s leadership brought him back to Augusta on two notable occasions, both of which galvanized the community and underscored the city’s role in the civil rights movement:
1. April 1962 – Tabernacle Baptist Church
Dr. King’s first visit as a civil rights leader took place at Tabernacle Baptist Church on April 3, 1962. Alongside other Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) leaders, including Reverend Wyatt T. Walker, Dr. King addressed a mass meeting organized by the Augusta NAACP Youth Council. His message of hope and resilience reverberated through the church, which remains a significant landmark today. Visitors can explore Tabernacle Baptist Church’s rich history and imagine the powerful moment when Dr. King’s voice called for unity and action.
Left: The historic Tabernacle Baptist Church, visited by Dr. King in April 1962. Right: Inspired by the non-violent teachings of Dr. King, Reverend C.S. Hamilton, pastor of Tabernacle Baptist Church and President of the Augusta Branch, NAACP, leads a group from Augusta to the 1963 March on Washington.Tabernacle Baptist Church
The historic Tabernacle Baptist Church, visited by Dr. King in April 1962.
Reverend C.S. Hamilton Leads March Group
Inspired by the non-violent teachings of Dr. King, Reverend C.S. Hamilton, pastor of Tabernacle...
2. March 1968 – Beulah Grove Baptist Church
Less than a month before his tragic assassination, Dr. King returned to Augusta and spoke at Beulah Grove Baptist Church. His words carried an even greater urgency as he continued to champion the Poor People’s Campaign and fight for equality. The church’s interior and exterior remain reminiscent of the era, offering visitors a tangible connection to this historic visit.
Left: A group led by Reverend Hamilton prepares to leave to attend the March on Washington in 1963. Right Four: Beulah Grove Baptist Church would be Dr. King's second and last visit to Augusta, March 1968.March Group Prepares to Leave
A group led by Reverend Hamilton prepares to leave to attend the March on Washington in 1963.
Beulah Grove Baptist Church
Beulah Grove Baptist Church would be Dr. King's second and last visit to Augusta, March 1968.
Experience Augusta’s Civil Rights Legacy
Augusta offers several opportunities to immerse yourself in the legacy of Dr. King and the broader civil rights movement:
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Phillips Street Historic Marker: Visit the site where the Bohler home once welcomed a young Martin Luther King Jr. and his family.
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Tabernacle Baptist Church: Explore this historic church where Dr. King delivered his 1962 address.
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Beulah Grove Baptist Church: Reflect on his powerful 1968 speech and the church’s enduring role in the community.
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Digital Archives: View rare video footage of Dr. King’s 1962 speech and other historic clips through the Civil Rights Digital Library.
Keeping the Legacy Alive
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ties to Augusta remind us of the city’s place in the larger struggle for civil rights. By visiting these landmarks and learning about his time here, we honor his legacy and continue to draw inspiration from his unwavering pursuit of justice. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these historic sites offers a meaningful way to connect with Augusta’s rich history and Dr. King’s enduring impact.
Header Photo Credits: The Augusta Chronicle
Blog Photo Credits: Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History
Resources: Tabernacle Baptist Church, The Augusta Chronicle, WSB-TV, Corey Rogers
