Hey y'all! Sorry I'm so late getting this posted, but I think you'll find it worth it. It's no secret that I love old churches. I wish they all could be rebuilt to their former glory, but with some that is just not possible, nor practical. Thank goodness there are still some standing, for those of us who love them so much, to enjoy. I heard about the Sheldon Church ruins a couple of years ago and have just been waiting for the opportunity to go see her and capture her beauty through the lens of my camera. On Cliff's trip to Port Royal a couple of weekends ago, I finally had the opportunity to do so.
The history behind the Old Sheldon Church ruins is this..... Originally named Church of Prince William's Parish. It was primarily paid for by Lt. Gov. William Bull I, who is buried there. Bull's grave is pictured, here, under the archway. It was often called Sheldon Church after his plantation. It was built between 1745-1755 and then partially burned by the British Army in 1779 during the American Revolution. The church's interior and roof were rebuilt in 1826. Then along came The Federal Army in 1865 and burned it again......the reason it is now called Old Sheldon Church Ruins.
I stood in awe of this majestic church, trying to imagine her congregation all those years ago. The vision of the builders blew my mind. This grand church was built in the middle of no where, basically. I can just see, in my mind's eye, the horse and buggies pulling through the gates and the church people walking through the grand doors to find their pew.....happy to be there to worship.
The church grounds are beautiful, also. Stately Oaks and Dogwoods grace the grounds and give it that truly southern ambience.
If you would like to visit this gorgeous piece of history, she is located near the small town of Yemassee and Beaufort, SC. I'm sure you will love it as much as I do.
Laurie
