Alexander Garden (priest) facts for kids

Alexander Garden (born around 1685 – died 1756) was a Scottish Episcopalian priest. He studied at the University of Aberdeen in Scotland.

In 1719, Alexander Garden moved to South Carolina, which was then part of the American Colonies. He became a special representative for the Bishop of London, called a Commissary. He also became the main priest, or rector, of St. Philip's Church in Charleston. At that time, Charleston was known as Charles Town. Garden was an important person in the early days of Charles Town.

Alexander Garden's Role in Colonial Charles Town

As the Bishop of London's Commissary, Alexander Garden had an important job. He helped oversee other priests in the area. He also took a special interest in education.

Education and Schools

Garden was involved with the Charleston Free School. He also started a school known as the "Negro School." This school was supported by the Church of England's Society for the Propagation of the Gospel. This society worked to spread Christian teachings.

A Disagreement with George Whitefield

Alexander Garden is also remembered for a disagreement he had with a famous preacher named George Whitefield. Whitefield was an evangelist who held very lively religious meetings. Garden tried to stop these meetings from happening in Charles Town. He felt Whitefield's style of worship was too "enthusiastic" and not proper for the church.

Later Life

In the spring of 1754, Alexander Garden retired from his duties. He moved to England. However, he soon returned to the warmer climate of South Carolina. He passed away there in 1756.