The church, with its hexastyle pedimented Doric portico, is a fine example of Samuel Sloan's ability with the Greek Revival style. Sloan, from Philadelphia, is perhaps better known for his Italianate designs. The missionary Reuben Ford organized the congregation. Under the auspices of the Leigh Street Baptist Church, seven other Baptist churches in Richmond were started. Additions have diminished some of its effect, and the interior is completely changed. The iron fencing, believed to be by Asa Snyder, is some of the best in the city.