Old Sheldon Church Ruins

by Kaylah Stroup
sarcophagus, cemetery, ruins

On the way home from Savannah, the week before last, Jeff and I made a pit stop in Beaufort County, South Carolina to check out some really neat looking church ruins I had found photos of online. Researching any vacation for us includes searching for abandoned spots and really neat old cemeteries in the area. This kind of touches on both! While it’s not actually abandoned by any means, it’s on the National Register of Historic Places, the ruins of this old church are way rad and totally up our alley.

The church was originally built between 1745 and 1755, at the time it was known as Prince William’s Parish Church. It was partially burned by the British during the American Revolution in 1779. The interior and roof were rebuilt in 1826. Then thirty nine years later it was set ablaze yet again, this time by the federal army. It was never repaired. Apparently what wasn’t destroyed in the fire was used to help rebuild homes in the area.

Surrounded by gorgeous old trees, draped in Spanish moss, this spot couldn’t have been more dreamy.  I always enjoy checking out the ruins of old buildings but the cemetery was what really excited me about this place. The first photo in this post? Ugh! It doesn’t get any more beautiful than that in my opinion. The fall colors, the sarcophagi, and Spanish moss! Be thankful you weren’t there in person with me, I would not shut up about Spanish moss. I’m honestly surprised I’ve mentioned it so few times on the blog.

Judging by the amount of photos, reviews, and the number of people that showed up at the end of our visit this is a super popular spot. As of October 2015, they no longer allow weddings on the property but they do still have a special Easter service each year. Jeff, and I showed up shortly after sunrise on a Sunday morning, while the sun was still at that perfect spot in the sky. We were the only people there for nearly an hour. I had so much fun roaming the property. Well worth the short detour!

south carolina, church

xoxo

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9 comments

Roseclouds December 6, 2016 - 2:21 pm

I live in Savannah and my husband and I eloped there. We just got out of the car, found a gorgeous old tree and had our friend perform the ceremony. (she was ordained on the internet). My coworker recently did the same thing!

Kaylah December 7, 2016 - 11:21 pm

That's so awesome! It's such a beautiful spot.
🙂

Alexandra December 6, 2016 - 2:55 pm

Oh man! This place looks perfect. I've never been to the Carolinas but they're filled with so many wonderful things I need a trip there asap. Adding this to the list immediately.

Kaylah December 7, 2016 - 11:22 pm

Have you made it to South of the Border yet!? Well, obviously not since you just said you haven't been to the Carolinas but it's definitely a good spot!!

MFerPhotography December 6, 2016 - 3:12 pm

You visited my spot! I always stop there on my way to see family nearby. There are so many great spots around that area you would love. If you ever go back hit up St. Helena island, lots of ruins and a even a ruined fort on the beach. Hunting Island State Park is worth a stop also and if you can get up to Edisto there is a beach covered in shells called Botany Bay. We plan on kayaking there and camping in a tree house along the river that is kayak in, kayak out. So up your alley!

Kaylah December 7, 2016 - 11:23 pm

Ahhh! I'm ready to go back already!

And kayaking to a tree house?! Holy cow, that sounds like the most fun trip ever. Can't wait to see your photos and read about it.
🙂

Alyce December 7, 2016 - 9:34 am

Lovely photos 🙂
So excited to see that you made it to SC! If you're ever back in the area, Charleston has some wonderful cemeteries- although tourism has absolutely exploded there in recent years.

Kaylah December 7, 2016 - 11:24 pm

Thanks, Alyce!

I don't think I've ever been recommended a city more than Charleston. So many people have told me to visit. Guess I really need to get there!

Jasilyn Albert December 8, 2016 - 7:40 am

Wow! It's beautiful. I really love that the skeleton of the building is still there. It reminds me of Atlantis or something!

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