First United Presbyterian Church, Charlotte

The First United Presbyterian Church in Charlotte holds historical and cultural significance on two fronts. Firstly, it stands as one of the city's older Gothic Revival churches, showcasing its architectural heritage. Secondly, it plays a pivotal role in the history of the black community in Charlotte.

Following the Civil War, as black people in the South sought to establish their identity in a society marked by discrimination and limited opportunities, they began creating their own institutions. Churches became crucial in nurturing skills and fostering community bonds.

In 1873, the Charlotte Colored Presbyterian Church acquired land at East Seventh and North College Streets. In 1876, they secured a loan for $800 from the Church Erection Fund. Once their new facility at East Seventh and North College Streets was ready, the congregation renamed itself the Seventh Street Presbyterian Church in 1877.

The current church building, constructed in 1894, was funded with a $1000 loan secured in 1896. Members themselves built the structure, working in the evenings and on weekends. The church merged with Brooklyn Presbyterian Church in 1968, forming the First United Presbyterian Church, which still occupies the historic building on the corner of North College and Seventh Streets.

Throughout its history, this church was closely linked to the early history of Biddle Memorial Institute, later Johnson C Smith University. Stephen Mattoon, a minister at the church, even served as the president of Biddle Institute, further illustrating its enduring legacy in Charlotte's black community's development.