Christian Science Church Building on Whiskey Road Approved for Demolition

The former home of the First Church of Christ, Scientist at 433 Whiskey Road in Aiken has been approved for demolition by the city’s Design Review Board. The property, which served as a reading room for the Christian Science Society of Aiken, is set to be removed to make way for a residential development. The decision follows a series of applications and rejections from the property’s current owners, Scott and Kimberly Gudith.

The Gudiths purchased the 1.1-acre lot in May 2024 for $425,000. Initially, they sought to renovate the 1972 structure into a residence, but their application was denied by the Design Review Board in November 2024. The board cited concerns over the extent of required renovations and the property’s historical status. The Gudiths reapplied in January 2025, and their revised plans were approved. However, Scott Gudith later stated that the project had become too costly and logistically challenging, particularly due to damage from Hurricane Helene.

The property, located on the west side of Whiskey Road, was designated as “non-contributing” to Historic District Two in the 1990s. Design Review Board guidelines allow for demolition when a structure does not contribute to the historical or visual character of a district. The board unanimously approved the demolition request, along with plans to maintain the property’s landscaping. Gudith withdrew his previously approved renovation plans, citing the decision as the most viable option for the property and the surrounding community.

Gudith estimated that developing new construction plans would take six to eight months, but he expects the demolition to occur within two months. The property has been maintained by the Gudiths, who have worked to keep it in good condition. They plan to grade the land, sod or seed it, and implement irrigation to ensure the site remains well-maintained.

The Christian Science Church, known as the First Church of Christ, Scientist, has historically operated reading rooms and publications to disseminate its teachings. While the Aiken congregation now holds services at Aiken Senior Life Services, the building’s legacy as a place of spiritual and community engagement remains part of the city’s history. The demolition marks a shift in the property’s use, reflecting broader changes in urban development and land repurposing.

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