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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Built in 1912 by prominent African-American building contractor, Edward T. Edwards, 283 Ashley Avenue remains in the same family 112 years later. Remarkably, each subsequent generation followed in Edward’s footsteps and found their calling in the building and masonry trades. In April of 1996, husband of the current owner, and descendant of Edwards, Mr. Arthur R. Mikell, Jr., received the Stoney Craftsmanship Award from Historic Charleston Foundation for his excellent masonry work found throughout Charleston.
After Mr. Mikell’s passing, his wife Ronda has remained in the home where she raised their daughter, Ramona, and is dedicated to maintaining ownership of 283 Ashley Avenue, and continuing her husband’s family legacy. She’s seen great change in the Westside neighborhood over the years. Many of the surrounding homes were once owned by members of their family, also dedicated craftsmen, but only a few remain in their family. With assistance from the Common Cause Loan Fund, Mrs. Mikell is able to keep their house for future generations.
