Old Bethel United Methodist Church
Old Bethel United Methodist Church
Old Bethel United Methodist ChurchOld Bethel United Methodist Church
Charleston, SC 29401
Hours:
Monday - Thursday 9:00a - 4:00p
Old Bethel United Methodist Church is the third oldest church building surviving in Charleston. Construction of the Bethel United Methodist Church began in 1797 and was completed in 1807. The pressed metal ceiling and Victorian era furnishing of Old Bethel date to the end of the 19th century.
Membership in the congregation of Old Bethel was open to both free blacks and slaves. However, in 1834 a schism developed over whether blacks were to be restricted to sitting in the galleries. By 1840 the black members seceded to form their own congregation.
The church currently serves a black congregation, which includes descendants of the 1880 congregation.
Old Bethel United Methodist Church is located at 222 Calhoun St. The building is open to the public. Call 843-722-3470 for further information.
