SOUTH CAROLINA - A state deeply rooted in colonial American history, is home to numerous historic churches that stand as testaments to its early beginnings. Among these venerable structures, Old St. Andrew's Parish Church in Charleston (specifically, the West Ashley area) holds the distinction of being generally considered the oldest surviving church building in South Carolina still in active use.
Old St. Andrew's Parish Church: South Carolina's Oldest Surviving Church Building
This beautiful church offers a direct link to the early days of the Carolina colony and the establishment of the Anglican faith in the region.
Founding and Early Construction (1706)
The history of Old St. Andrew's begins shortly after the turn of the 18th century. The parish was officially established in 1706, designated as one of the original ten Anglican parishes created by the South Carolina Commons House of Assembly to serve the growing colony (Source: Diocese of South Carolina Historical Records, South Carolina Historical Society). Construction of the church building commenced that same year, providing a permanent place of worship for the early settlers west of the Ashley River.
Architectural Evolution
The original 1706 structure was later expanded to meet the growing congregation's needs. _Between 1723 and 1733, the church building was enlarged, taking on its current cruciform (cross) shape (Source: Old St. Andrew's Parish Church history, architectural surveys)._ This expanded structure is the building that stands today, remarkably preserved through centuries of history.
The Key Distinction: Oldest Building vs. Oldest Congregation
It's essential to clarify Old St. Andrew's specific claim. While St. Philip's Church, also in Charleston, boasts the oldest congregation in South Carolina (founded in 1680), its current, iconic building dates only to the 1830s (with the steeple completed later) (Source: St. Philip's Church historical records). Therefore, Old St. Andrew's Parish Church retains the significant title of the oldest surviving church building in South Carolina, which remains active.
An Enduring Faith Community
Old St. Andrew's is not merely a museum but a vital center of faith. _The church maintains an active congregation and offers regular Sunday and Wednesday services, continuing the tradition of worship within its historic walls that began over 300 years ago.
Historical Recognition
The importance of Old St. Andrew's Parish Church is recognized through its official designations. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, acknowledging its architectural integrity and significance in American colonial history (Source: National Register of Historic Places database).
Old St. Andrew's Parish Church in Charleston symbolizes South Carolina's earliest colonial history and its enduring Anglican heritage. As the oldest surviving church building still actively used for worship in the state, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and connect with the faith and community of South Carolina's first European settlers. Its beautiful architecture and rich history make it a cherished landmark and a vital piece of the Palmetto State's story.
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Sources:
- Old St. Andrew's Parish Church Website/Historical Records
- Diocese of South Carolina Historical Records
- South Carolina Historical Society
- National Register of Historic Places Database
- St. Philip's Church Historical Records
- Architectural Surveys of Charleston
