University Baptist Church, Austin

University Baptist Church, located in Austin, was established between 1907 and 1908, primarily to cater to the University of Texas students. Initially, it operated out of space rented from Highland Presbyterian Church and became officially recognized on September 27, 1908, starting with 80 members.

By 1914, the congregation had expanded significantly, partly due to merging with the defunct Central Baptist Church, reaching nearly 500 members. In 1916, the church acquired a plot at the corner of 22nd and Guadalupe Street for a new building. Designed by Albert Kelsey, a Philadelphia architect, the building was crafted in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, echoing the architectural theme of the nearby University of Texas. The building, which could accommodate 1,100 people, quickly became a prominent feature on Guadalupe Street, also known as the "Drag."

In 1943, the church made a progressive move by welcoming African American members, a rare stance among churches in the Southern Baptist Convention at the time. This decision led to their temporary removal from the Austin Baptist Association, although they were later reinstated. The 1970s saw the church further breaking traditional norms by ordaining women as deacons.

The church faced another expulsion from the Austin Baptist Association in 1995 for ordaining a gay man as a deacon. In response to this and other factors, the church decided in 1997 to sever ties with the Southern Baptist Convention. It has since been recognized for its inclusive approach, particularly towards the LGBTQ community, and has aligned with several progressive Baptist organizations.

The main church building, finished in 1921, was recognized as a historic site in 1998 and is known for its distinctive stone facade and acoustically superior cathedral ceilings. It has been a venue for performances by artists like Willie Nelson and Larry Gatlin. Additionally, a student union building, adorned with a Charles Umlauf sculpture, was added in 1949.