Mariners' Church

Mariners' Church is a Gothic Revival house of worship featuring pointed arches, stained glass windows, ribbed vaults, and intricate stone carvings. The structure stands at 170 East Jefferson Avenue and continues to serve as an active place of worship.

The church originated from Julia Anderson's legacy in 1842, which established this religious community. The current building was relocated to its present site in 1955 after a preservation campaign rescued it from demolition.

The church holds a fleet blessing each March and a November memorial service for those lost in the Great Lakes. These ceremonies reflect how deeply the maritime tradition is rooted here and how the community honors its connection to the water.

The building is accessible during worship hours and sits close to the waterfront in an easy-to-find location. Keep in mind this is an active place of worship, so respectful behavior is expected from visitors.

During the 1955 relocation, workers discovered an underground tunnel beneath the building. This finding suggests the site may have served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, helping people escape to freedom.

Location: Detroit

Inception: 1842

Architects: Calvin N. Otis

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Website: https://marinerschurchofdetroit.org

GPS coordinates: 42.32943,-83.04204

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:30