by Cynthia Wall

Created on: April 07, 2009   Last Updated: February 07, 2010

Even though Charlotte, North Carolina is home to NASCAR and a mecca for financial institutions, it's the church spires you notice first. Originally named "Charlotte" for German Princess of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, the queen consort of British King George III, Charlotte quickly became the "Queen City," a nickname that is still used today. But it was the influx of immigrants with varied religions in the 1800's who led to the name "City of Churches.

Charlotte had a third nickname (The Hornet's Nest) after its successful defense against the British during the Revolutionary War. The "Charlotteans" drove the attackers out of town and assured its rightful place in the independent United States.

Charlotte was also the first site in the U.S. to discover gold and there was quite a rush during the mid-1800's, but it was the faith of its people that led to glory of a spiritual nature. Many of the original churches built by Presbyterians, Baptists, Methodists, Episcopalians, Lutherans, and Catholics still stand.

The First Presbyterian Church, 200 West Trade Street was established in 1821. It is the oldest organization in the same location in Charlotte and is part of the downtown walking tour.

The First Methodist Church, 501 North Tryon Street, was built in 1926 and is an extravagant example of the Gothic Revival Style. Money provided by noted philanthropist James B. Duke helped build the church.

The First United Presbyterian Church at 406 North College Street was constructed in the 1890's but there has been a Black Presbyterian Church on the site since the mid 1870's.

St. Peter's Episcopal Church at 115 West 7th Street was built in 1857. The present sanctuary was completed in 1893. St. Peter's continually reaches out to the broader community and the doors to the sanctuary are open in the day.

The First Baptist Church at 318 North Tryon Street is now The Spirit Square Center for the Arts. It was originally in 1909, designed by architect J.M. McMichael. It now houses performance space and art galleries and is home to the Community School of Arts.

St.Peter's Roman Catholic Church, 507 South Tryon Street, was built in 1878. The church and rectory are the only remaining 19th Century structures on South Tryon Street. A beautiful Ben Long fresco graces the wall behind the altar.

Historic St. Mary's Chapel (1892) is located on East 3rd St. downtown in Thompson's Park. The chapel was originally built for Thompson's Orphanage but now is a historic site and a popular site for weddings.

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