In a new preservation initiative, Historic Charleston Foundation is working to support Charleston's historic Black churches and their congregations by facilitating and collaborating with experts and resources with the objective of maintaining structures, and to ensure viability of churches in their historic locations.
Black churches have been pivotal in Charleston’s history, representing places of worship, cultural heritage, and social activism for the African-American community. Many of these churches were central to civil rights movements and social justice efforts, making them integral to local and national history.
Since its inception, there has been great interest in the Saving Grace Initiative, which is a reflection of the great need churches have for assistance. The Foundation has also been blessed with enthusiastic partners in our pilot phase endeavors including, but not limited to, Artis Construction, Glenn Keyes Architects, Reggie Gibson, Clemson School of Architecture and the Clemson Masters in Science in Historic Preservation Program.
Historic Charleston Foundation is proud to be working alongside the following churches and congregations:
Commissioned and designed in 1852 by famed 19th century arcitect, Francis D. Lee, this Gothic Revival brick church features 55-foot vaulted ceilings, massive stained glass windows, pointed arches, and a cruciform floor plan. Its architectural brilliance is matched by its historical and cultural significance, tied to the Jenkins Family Orphanage and The Charleston Movement. Through the Saving Grace Initiative, the Foundation continues to support congregation of the New Tabernacle Fourth Baptist Church (NTFBC) to preserve this historic and architectural gem as a vital part of Charleston's heritage. In 2024, HCF began its collaboration with Artis Construction, Glenn Keyes Architects, and Reggie Gibson Architects to address critical structural needs for this congregation.
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