The Unitarian Church

The Unitarian Church in Charleston, South Carolina is the oldest Unitarian church in the southern U.S. Construction of the building began in 1772 when it became necessary to create a second church to house the booming congregation of the Independent Church (now the Circular Congregational Church.) When the Revolutionary War erupted in 1776, the almost-finished building was used to house soldiers and the pews were destroyed. The church endured further damage in 1780 when the British occupied the city, also using the church to house its troops. Restoration of the building was completed in 1787 and in 1839 the church was rechartered as Unitarian.

A 19th Century Renovation

Many of the religious buildings in historic Charleston, South Carolina are architecturally noteworthy and the Unitarian Church is no exception. In 1852, renovations began which included the addition of many Gothic Revival details. Inspired by English holy sites such as the Chapel of Henry VII at Westminster Abbey, architect Francis D. Lee set about adding stained glass windows, a Tudor arch entrance and a tower reminiscent of a medieval castle. The earthquake of 1886 damaged the grand structure extensively, including tearing off the top of the tower. Unitarian churches across the nation donated funds to repair the destruction.

Unique Burial Grounds

Located behind the Unitarian Church is a historic cemetery unlike other graveyards. Wildflowers, plants and weeds grow free around the monuments and at first glance, the grounds appear overgrown and unkempt. However the sidewalks are perfectly clear and easy to navigate. The church chooses to allow the foliage to grow free because it symbolizes that out of death, comes life.

Visiting the The Unitarian Church

The Unitarian Church is located at 4 Archdale Street.

For more information call 843-723-4617 or e-mail at office@charlestonuu.org.

Click here to visit The Unitarian Church official website