St. Michael's Churchyard facts for kids
St. Michael's Churchyard is a very old and important burial ground in Charleston, South Carolina. It is right next to the historic St. Michael's Episcopal Church. Many famous people from American history are buried here. This includes two people who signed the Constitution of the United States. The church itself was started way back in 1751. It was the second Anglican church in Charleston.
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Discovering St. Michael's Churchyard
St. Michael's Churchyard is a special place. It is located in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina. This historic site holds the graves of many people who helped shape early American history. It is a quiet place to learn about the past.
Who is Buried Here?
Many important figures are buried in St. Michael's Churchyard. These individuals played big roles in the founding of the United States. They also helped lead South Carolina.
Signers of the Constitution
- Charles Cotesworth Pinckney (1746–1825) was a brave soldier in the Continental Army. He was also a key member of the group that wrote the U.S. Constitution. He signed this important document. Later, he served as a U.S. Minister to France. He also ran for Vice President and President of the United States.
- John Rutledge (1739–1800) was a Governor of South Carolina in 1779. He also helped write and signed the U.S. Constitution. Later, he became the Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Other Important Leaders
- Robert Young Hayne (1791–1839) served as a Senator for South Carolina. He was also a Governor of South Carolina. He even became the mayor of Charleston.
- Arthur Peronneau Hayne (c.1789-1867) was another U.S. Senator from South Carolina.
- William Dickinson Martin (1789–1833) served as a U.S. Congressman from South Carolina.
- Mordecai Gist (1742–1792) was a general during the American Revolutionary War. He fought for America's freedom.
- Thomas M. Wagner was a Lieutenant Colonel during the American Civil War. A famous fort, Battery Wagner, was named after him.
- Henrietta Johnston and her second husband are also buried here. She was a famous artist.
St. Michael's Church Cemetery
Right across the street from the churchyard is St. Michael's Church Cemetery. Another important person is buried there:
- Francis Kinloch (1755–1826) was a delegate to the Second Continental Congress. This was a very important meeting during the American Revolution.
Famous Gates of Charleston
Charleston is known for its beautiful wrought iron gates. Three German-born artists created many of these. Their names were J. A. W. Iusti, Frederick Julius Ortmann, and Christopher Werner. Iusti created the "Sword Gate" at St. Michael's Cemetery. This is one of the two most famous iron gates in Charleston. The other "Sword Gate" was made by Werner. These gates are true works of art.
