The First Baptist Church was completely gutted, although the walls remained standing and could be used in the new building. This was not the first time the Baptists had lost their church. At least once before, and possibly twice, fire had destroyed the Baptist house of worship. Structural changes have been made since this building was erected, and we can't see the original cornerstone, but records show this building was dedicated in May, 1886.

A side view of the First Baptist Church taken right after the fire.

Oblique view, showing the destinctive front.

This picture appears in an 1899 booklet.