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A Building Worth Preserving

120 Years of History. 45 Years of Unity. A Legacy Worth Preserving.

Built in 1906, the home of Unity of Brooklyn is more than a place of fellowship. It is part of Flatbush's architectural, cultural, and spiritual history.

The building is a distinctive example of early 20th-century English Arts & Crafts ecclesiastical architecture and one of the few surviving structures from Flatbush's pre-World War I residential era.

For 120 years, it has stood as the surrounding neighborhood has evolved, preserving a connection to an earlier chapter of Brooklyn's history.

Historic postcard showing the Fourth Unitarian Church in Flatbush, Brooklyn, with its original printed heading
Historic postcard of the Fourth Unitarian Church, 1911.

But the significance of this building extends beyond its architecture.

Its history reflects Brooklyn's longstanding tradition of religious diversity, faith, and community connection.

Unity of Brooklyn was founded in 1981. The building serves as a spiritual sanctuary and community gathering place for a primarily African American congregation, including many longtime senior members.

For more than four decades, Unity of Brooklyn has provided a welcoming space for spiritual growth, fellowship, and connection.

Today, this 120-year-old building remains an important part of our congregation's life and the surrounding community.

Our History at a Glance

Unity of Brooklyn and Our Spiritual Home: 1906, building constructed; 1981, Unity of Brooklyn founded; 1985, building acquired by Unity East Church Center; 2026, Legacy campaign launches November 15
  1. 1906

    A Brooklyn Landmark Takes Shape

    Our church building was constructed in Flatbush, Brooklyn, reflecting the English Arts & Crafts architectural style of the early 20th century.

  2. 1981

    The Beginning of Unity of Brooklyn.

    Unity of Brooklyn was founded in 1981.

  3. 1985

    Building Acquired by Unity East Church Center

    In 1985, the building was acquired by Unity East Church Center.

  4. 2026

    Preserving Our Legacy

    As the building reaches its 120th year, Unity of Brooklyn launches Legacy 60 to support essential structural repairs and help preserve this historic sanctuary for future generations.

Why Legacy 60 Matters

After 120 years, our building needs important structural attention.

Like many historic buildings, maintaining its safety and integrity requires ongoing care and investment.

The Legacy 60 campaign was established to help address these needs, beginning with essential building repairs.

But this campaign represents something greater than a construction project.

It is about protecting a place that has welcomed generations of people seeking spiritual connection, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.

It is about honoring the building's history while ensuring that it remains a safe and welcoming spiritual home for years to come.

We are not simply repairing a building. We are preserving a legacy.

Our Vision for Unity of Brooklyn

Honoring Our History. Preserving Our Future.

This image represents our vision for the future of Unity of Brooklyn: a restored, well-maintained, and welcoming spiritual home that continues to serve our congregation and community for generations to come.

Artistic vision of a restored Unity of Brooklyn church, showing the full building, red doors, garden, and Unity of Brooklyn sign
An artistic representation of our vision for Unity of Brooklyn. This image does not depict the building's current condition.

Help Us Preserve 120 Years of History

Legacy 60 is not limited to Unity of Brooklyn members.

We welcome the participation of friends, families, neighbors, former members, and anyone who values the preservation of this historic Brooklyn building.

Whether you have fellowshipped within these walls, have a connection to the Flatbush community, or simply believe that places with such rich histories deserve to be preserved, we invite you to be part of this effort.

Please share Legacy 60 with your friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers who may have an interest in helping us preserve this building.

Your support, regardless of the amount, makes a difference.

Campaign Goal
$75,000
Target
60 contributors
Fund Designation
Building Fund