CANTON – The Unitarian Universalist Church of Canton and St. Lawrence County Center for History and Culture will host this year’s New York Landmarks Conservancy Sacred Sites Open House on Saturday, May 17 with tours starting at 10 a.m.

This year’s state-wide theme, “Building for Eternity: Religious Architecture and Artisans,” invites visitors to explore the vibrant history of houses of worship and offers a unique opportunity for attendees to delve into the artistic and historical treasures that shape New York’s diverse religious institutions.

In Canton, there will be free guided tours on the hour that feature the Church’s architectural history, unique stained glass, historic organ, including short organ concerts by Dr. Nelly Case.

Tours will conclude with a visit to the former parsonage that now houses the SLC Center for History and Culture.

Both buildings are listed on the National Historic Register.

The Unitarian Universalist Church of Canton is celebrating the Bicentennial of the original formation of the church in 1825.

The current church building was constructed of locally quarried gray marble and was dedicated in 1897 on the site of the original brick church that was built in 1829.

In addition to the church’s rich history in the North Country, attendees can explore an exhibition of artifacts and history at St. Lawrence County Center for History and Culture, also known as the Silas Wright House, originally built in 1833 then renovated and used as a parsonage in 1893.

"The Sacred Sites Open House is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our shared heritage, highlight local artistry, and bring people together through music and storytelling,” says Rev. James Galasinski, Minister of the UU Church of Canton.

Carlene Bermann, Director of the SLC Center for History and Culture, adds, “The event will be an educational and fun-filled day, where you can discover the remarkable stories behind the architecture, the stained glass, the organ and the historic exhibits.” Guided tours will begin at 10 and 11 a.m., 1, 2 and 3 p.m. at the rear entrance of the UU Church next to the entrance for St. Lawrence Center for History and Culture at 3 E. Main St., in Canton.

For more information, please contact the church office at (315) 386-2498 or office@uucantonny.org.

The Unitarian Universalist Church of Canton is celebrating its 200th year as a beacon of liberal religion and a welcoming congregation in the North Country.

Throughout 2025 there will be special Sunday services, guest speakers, tours of the building featuring the historical stained glass windows, special events celebrating our history with other institutions such as St. Lawrence University and The St. Lawrence Center for History and Culture.

All events and Sunday services are open to the public.

For detailed information please see the church website at www.uucantonny.org/our-bicentennial/ .