St. Andrews Episcopal Church

St. Andrews Episcopal Church is a brick building designed with a cross-shaped floor plan that defines its colonial character. Inside, compass-headed windows, wooden ceilings, and other period details create the authentic appearance of an 18th-century house of worship.

The church was founded in 1706 under colonial law to serve the growing Anglican population. It underwent expansion in 1723 to accommodate more worshippers settling along the river.

The church has long served as a spiritual center for Charleston's Anglican community and remains a place where people gather for worship. It shapes the city's religious identity and attracts those curious about the church's role in colonial society.

The building sits on Ashley River Road in West Ashley and can be visited during service times and special occasions. Plan your visit ahead since the space is used for worship and may have limited access on certain days.

This church stands as the sole surviving colonial cross-shaped building of its kind in South Carolina and ranks among the oldest houses of worship south of Virginia. Its survival is notable since many similar structures from that era have been lost.

Location: Charleston

Inception: 1706

Architectural style: colonial architecture

GPS coordinates: 32.83833,-80.04972

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:42