Old Sheldon Church
Twice Burned
State: South Carolina
County: Beaufort County
Founded: 1745
Abandoned: 1865
Peak Population: 200
Old Sheldon Church was burned by the British in 1779 during the Revolution. Rebuilt, it was burned again by Sherman's troops in 1865 during the March to the Sea. The haunting brick columns and walls have never been rebuilt, standing as a monument to war.
Revolutionary War
British troops burned Prince William's Parish Church in 1779. Colonists rebuilt it after the war.
Civil War
Sherman's troops burned it again in 1865. This time, no one rebuilt. The ruins became a pilgrimage site.
Timeline
- 1745 - Built Church constructed
- 1779 - First Burning British destroyed it
- 1826 - Rebuilt Congregation rebuilt church
- 1865 - Second Burning Sherman's troops burned it
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 1 hour
Quick Facts
- Burned by British and later by Sherman
- Brick columns still standing
- Popular wedding and photography site
Location
Address: Near Yemassee, South Carolina
Coordinates: 32.6472, -80.7833