St. Philip's Church (Charleston, South Carolina)

St. Philip's Church (Charleston, South Carolina) is a historic Episcopal parish church located in Charleston, South Carolina. Established in the late 17th century, it is the oldest religious congregation in South Carolina and has played a central role in the city's religious, social, and political life for over three centuries. The current Greek Revival building, completed in 1838, is a prominent National Historic Landmark on Church Street.

History

The origins of the congregation trace to the founding of Charles Towne in 1670 under the Church of England. The first wooden structure was built in 1680, making it the first Anglican church established south of Virginia. This original building was destroyed by a fire in 1710. A second, more substantial brick church was completed in 1723 on the present site of St. Michael's Church. Following damage from a hurricane and another fire, the congregation decided to rebuild at its current location. The cornerstone for the existing edifice was laid in 1835, and the church was consecrated in 1838, just before the outbreak of the American Civil War. During the War, its towering steeple was used as a lookout post by Confederate forces, and the church survived the bombardment of the city. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1973.

Architecture

Designed by English architect Joseph Hyde, the current structure is a premier example of early 19th-century Greek Revival architecture in the American South. The exterior is characterized by its monumental portico supported by two-story Tuscan columns and a distinctive, multi-tiered clock tower and steeple, which dominates the Charleston skyline. The interior features a gallered nave, a coffered ceiling, and original pews. Notable interior elements include the communion rail from the 1723 building and a font presented by King George II. The church's organ has been rebuilt and expanded several times, with notable work by the Roosevelt Organ Company.

Churchyard and burials

The churchyard is one of the most historically significant burial grounds in the South. It serves as the final resting place for many prominent figures from South Carolina history. Interments include John C. Calhoun, the seventh Vice President of the United States and a leading states' rights advocate; Charles Pinckney, a signer of the United States Constitution; and Dubose Heyward, author of the novel *Porgy*. Also buried here are several governors of South Carolina, including James Hamilton Jr., and numerous early planters and merchants. The gravestones and mausoleums reflect a range of styles from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Notable clergy

The pulpit of St. Philip's has been occupied by many influential clergy. Early rectors included Rev. Samuel Thomas, the first missionary sent to the colony by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel. Perhaps the most famous was Rev. Alexander Garden, who served as Commissary for the Bishop of London and was a noted theological opponent of George Whitefield during the First Great Awakening. In the 19th century, Bishop Robert Smith, the first Episcopal Bishop of South Carolina, served as rector. More recent notable rectors include Philip G. Porcher and Dow Sanderson.

Cultural significance

St. Philip's Church is an enduring symbol of Charleston's heritage and resilience. It is a key site on the city's historic district tours and is frequently depicted in artwork and photography. The church and its churchyard are integral to the setting of Pat Conroy's novel *The Lords of Discipline*. Its bells have marked significant moments in the city's history, including the end of the Civil War and various public celebrations. As the mother church of Anglicanism in South Carolina, it remains an active parish within the Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina and continues to be a center for worship, community service, and the preservation of historical memory.

Category:Churches in Charleston, South Carolina Category:National Historic Landmarks in South Carolina Category:Episcopal church buildings in South Carolina Category:Greek Revival church buildings in the United States Category:Religious buildings and structures completed in 1838