When we think of old churches, it brings up images of grand cathedrals in Spain or quaint country churches in England. But the United States has many gorgeous churches with impressive architecture. One of the most beautiful hidden gems in the Great Lake State is a historic church in Grosse IIe, Michigan, that looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale.

St James Episcopal Church is located in Grosse Ile, the largest island in the Detroit River.
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The Carpenter Gothic church has been serving the Michigan community since 1867 and has a fascinating history.
Elizabeth Kirwan/Google
Elisabeth (Lisette) Denison Forth played a vital role in the church’s creation. Lisette was born a slave in 1786 but later gained her freedom by crossing into Canada.
Unknown photographer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
She became friends with a woman named Eliza Biddle, and they made a vow together to build a chapel one day. Eliza passed on with Lisette following soon after. When Lisette died, she left $3,000 to be used to construct the chapel, along with the help of funds from Eliza and Eliza’s son.
Construction for the church began in 1867 and was completed just one year later. The first service was held in the spring of 1868.
St. James Episcopal Church, Grosse Ile, Michigan/Facebook

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Many repairs and additions have been added to the church over the years. In 1898, a Tiffany glass window was installed in the church.
Historic Church Grosse IIe Michigan
Andrew Jameson, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
In 1958, a larger church was constructed on-site, and both buildings are used today. The main structure still remains in excellent condition.
St. James Episcopal Church, Grosse Ile, Michigan/Facebook
The vibrant red doors on the structure are dedicated to Lisette Denison Forth.
Elizabeth Kirwan/Google
St James Episcopal Church was designated a Michigan State Historic Site in 1971.
St James Episcopal Church/Google
The Church still serves the Grosse Ile community today and has Sunday and Wednesday services.
Barry Van Engelen/Google

For further details about the church services, visit the St James Episcopal Church website or Facebook page. Have you visited this breathtaking architectural beauty? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Not too far from this place, you can see The Remnants Of This Abandoned Church In Detroit That Are Hauntingly Beautiful.

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25150 E River Rd, Grosse Ile Township, MI 48138, USA