First Unitarian Church of Alton

The story

About First Unitarian Church of Alton

The occupies a historic site with roots reaching back to the 1800s. Earlier church buildings on the property were damaged or destroyed by fire, and the congregation’s history intersects with ’s role in abolitionism and the Underground Railroad. The current church has also become part of the city’s extensive paranormal folklore. Visitors, staff and investigators have described unexplained footsteps, voices, unusual cold areas and apparitions inside the building, particularly around older sections and stairways. Haunted-history tours in frequently include the church among the city’s notable supernatural locations. It remains an active religious congregation rather than a commercial haunted attraction, so access should be limited to public services, scheduled events or tours that have permission to enter the property.