First (Scots) Presbyterian Church, Charleston

The Scots Kirk, also known as the Scots Meeting House, was established in 1731 by a dozen Scottish families who held firm beliefs in adhering to the strict subscription to the Westminster Standards (church laws) and the Presbyterian form of church governance. Their initial modest structure on this very site was erected in 1734. Subsequently, in 1814, it was replaced by the present building, making it the fifth-oldest church edifice in Charleston. The design, inspired by the Baltimore Basilica in Baltimore, Maryland, is credited to Benjamin Latrobe, the same accomplished architect responsible for masterminding the United States Capitol in Washington D.C.

Despite suffering substantial damage from a fire in 1945, the historic building received meticulous restoration efforts. Above the main entrance, a window showcases the seal of the Church of Scotland—a depiction of the burning bush along with the Latin motto "Nec Tamen Consumbatur", which translates to "Nevertheless it was not consumed". The stained glass windows within the church feature various Scottish symbols, and the unmistakable Scottish thistle graces the wrought iron grilles, further emphasizing the deep-rooted Scottish heritage celebrated within these hallowed walls.