As one of the original 13 colonies, South Carolina is steeped in historical buildings, especially when it comes to places of worship. From the oldest synagogue in America to a newer church adorned in beautiful hand-painted art, and several church ruins scattered throughout, the Palmetto State is rich with notable places of worship that are worth a visit.
When it comes to the oldest (still in use) church building, that would be the majestic structure known as St. Michaels Church, found at the corner of Meeting and Church Streets in Charleston. Constructed between 1752 and 1761, the church has seen little change since it opened — except for the addition of the sacristy in the southeast corner.
Oddly enough, the architect for the project remains unknown — a peculiar fact most don't realize about the church. Inside are pews constructed of native cedar, and gallery-style seating with the pulpit in the middle.
The double pew near the pulpit with the number 43 on the outside of the door was sat in by George Washington when he worshipped here on Sunday afternoon, May 8, 1791. Later, General Robert E. Lee also sat in the same pew.
Be sure to lift your eyes up and take particular notice of the chandelier added in 1803. Originally, it was lit by candles. Later it was fueled by gas, before finally being converted to electricity.
The pulpit is the original one. The panel on the front was stolen during the War Between the States and later returned unharmed and subsequently reinstalled in its original place.
Several notable figures of historic significance are laid to rest in the beautiful old cemetery, including two signers of The Declaration of Independence.
St. Michaels Church is located at 71 Broad Street, Charleston, SC 29401. It’s open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Learn more on the official website.
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