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St. Andrew's Episcopal
Church
ST. ANDREW'S PARISH
About eight miles from Charleston on the Ashley
River Road, leading to the famous Magnolia Gardens, stands one
of our most historic churches, that of St. Andrew's
Parish.
The parish was established in 1706 and a simple
brick building erected. As this became too small for the
growing congregation, it was enlarged in 1723, taking the form
of a cross. It was neatly finished and commodiously pewed. At
the west end was a gallery, originally intended for those who
had no pews, but afterwards appropriated to the Negro slaves.
The church was destroyed by fire, March 10, 1763, but was
rebuilt in 1764, and is one of the few rural churches that has
survived the Revolutionary and Confederate wars. When entering
this old church today, standing on the floor of the first
building, one sees an old pulpit and pews which date back to
1764. The original walls are still
preserved.
Services are held here once a month.
Many
persons prominent in history have worshiped in this church.
The grave of Thomas Nairne, the Indian commissioner killed by
the Yamasee at Pocotaligo, is among the oldest in the
churchyard. Another victim of Indian vengeance buried here is
Henry Quintine.
BY
HAZEL CROWSON SELLERS
South Carolina
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