United First Parish Church, Granite church in Quincy, United States
The United First Parish Church is a granite structure in central Quincy, Massachusetts, defined by its four monolithic stone columns and temple-like front. The building functions as both a sanctuary and a burial site, with an underground crypt containing family tombs beneath the floor.
The parish originated in 1639 as an offshoot of a Boston church and operated from several locations over the centuries. In 1828, the building received its iconic granite exterior and classical design when architect Alexander Parris redesigned the structure.
The church served as a gathering place where the Adams family and their community worshipped together. The space connects religious practice with the political history of early America in a way visitors can still sense today.
Visitors can explore the sanctuary and crypt through guided tours available most days of the week. It's helpful to check which areas are open when you arrive, as access to certain rooms may be limited depending on daily schedules.
The crypt below the church holds the remains of two presidents from the same family along with their spouses, making it one of the few places in the country where multiple presidential graves are grouped together. This dual presidential burial site is rarely encountered in American churches.
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