Old Sheldon Church Ruins facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
Sheldon Church Ruins
|
|
,_Sheldon_vicinity_(Beaufort_County,_South_Carolina).jpg)
Sheldon Church Ruins
|
|
 Location in South Carolina
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Beaufort County, South Carolina, USA |
|---|---|
| Nearest city | Yemassee, South Carolina |
| Area | 4.5 acres (1.8 ha) |
| Built | 1753 |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 70000562 |
| Added to NRHP | October 22, 1970 |
The Old Sheldon Church Ruins is a really old and important place in Beaufort County, South Carolina. It's about 17 miles (30 km) north of Beaufort. This historic site is famous for its beautiful, ruined walls that stand among old oak trees. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which means it's a special spot worth protecting.
Contents
A Glimpse into History
The Church's Beginnings
The building was first known as Prince William's Parish Church. It was built between 1745 and 1753. This church was a "chapel of ease." This means it was a smaller church built for people who lived far from the main parish church. It was designed in the English Georgian style, which was popular back then.
Two Times of Trouble
Many people believe the church was badly damaged twice. The first time was in 1779 during the American Revolutionary War. British soldiers supposedly burned it. After that, the church was rebuilt in 1826.
Then, during the American Civil War, it was said to be burned again in 1865. This time, it was by the Union Army under General William T. Sherman. A report from South Carolina after the war described this second burning. It said that everything inside that could burn was destroyed. But the strong, thick walls survived, just like they did the first time.
A Different Story?
However, some people have a different idea about what happened in 1865. A letter from February 3, 1866, written by Milton Leverett, said that "Sheldon Church not burn't. Just torn up in the inside, but can be repaired." This suggests the church wasn't burned down. Instead, its inside parts might have been taken apart. The materials could have been used to rebuild homes that Sherman's army had burned.
What You See Today
Exploring the Ruins
Today, the ruins stand among tall, old oak trees and scattered graves. It's a very peaceful and beautiful place. Inside the church ruins, you can find the remains of Governor William Bull. He was an important person who helped design the city of Savannah, Georgia. He surveyed the land in 1733, helping to create its famous grid pattern of streets and squares.
A Special Place for Visitors
The Old Sheldon Church Ruins are a very popular spot in the Lowcountry area of South Carolina. Many photographers love to visit and take pictures of the historic site. People also enjoy coming here to see the history and beauty.
Since 1925, a special church service has been held here every year. It takes place on the second Sunday after Easter. Clergy from the Parish Church of St. Helena in Beaufort lead this service.
