Virginia’s extensive history lends itself to all sorts of architectural wonders. From strikingly beautiful to downright baffling, there’s an entire range of sites to appreciate and admire. Today, we’ll focus on one that classifies under both categories. The Historic Polegreen Church, nicknamed Virginia’s ghost church, is more an idea of a structure than anything else. Founded nearly 275 years ago, this historic site has an undeniable and nearly mystical appeal. Take a look at the photographs below and see what you think:

At the side of a nondescript road in Mechanicsville, Virginia awaits the remains of a beautiful and historic site known as Polegreen Church.

Historic Polegreen Church

The church saw its beginnings in 1748, when a community known as the Hanover Dissenters would gather to exercise religious freedom when during the time, the Anglican church was the only one sanctioned by the state.

Historic Polegreen Church

Samuel Davies was invited to preach at the newly-built church, which was completed by 1764.

Historic Polegreen Church

Davies was a significant figure for many reasons. First and foremost, he was a leader in the movement to teach slaves to read. Secondly, he was the first ordained non-Anglican minister in Virginia.

Historic Polegreen Church

The church was burned down towards the end of the Civil War, yet its frame still stands as a haunting and ethereal tribute.

Historic Polegreen Church

The structure that remains today is a design by architecture Carlton Abbott in memory of both the church and its community of pioneers for religious and civil rights.

Historic Polegreen Church

Today, visitors are encouraged by the Polegreen Church Foundation to tour the property and learn about its unique history.

Historic Polegreen Church The church is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Special tours can be arranged upon request.

Polegreen Church is located at 6411 Heatherwood Drive, Mechanicsville, Virginia 23116. Have you visited this unique site before? If so, we’d love to hear about your experiences!

Historic Polegreen Church

The church is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Special tours can be arranged upon request.

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