March 8th, 2015
Destination? Charleston, South Carolina, Holy City, St. Michael’s Church, Colonial American Church, National Historic Landmark, Denomination? Catholic
It was gray in Charleston, raining too. But, taking off for a walk after we had just arrived on Monday was a must. Passing by St. Michael’s Church we were inspired by this building to go in. This is a National Historic Landmark. St. Michael’s Church is located at 71 Broad St. Tel. 843-723-0603. Website? http://www.stmichaelschurch.net. St. Michael’s Church is one of the few city churches in America that has retained its original design.
Steeples can be seen throughout the City of Charleston. Buildings cannot be built taller than the tallest steeple, which I believe is St. Philip’s Church.
I don’t know about you but regardless of my church affiliation, I do go and visit churches anywhere I find myself. And most of the time I drop something in the prayer request box. I feel I am all covered….having all pray for me.
Catholics were the last ones to arrive in Charleston, South Carolina. The building where St. Michael’s Church stands is the oldest church edifice in the City, dating to 1680. This was, originally, the site of the first Anglican Church south of Virginia. The church got too small for its congregation and then moved a few times. St. Philip’s…more on that church later on. The structured of the building has seen practically little change.
St. Michael’s Church is gorgeous and that day’s docent was so nice. Even with his disabilities he was able to tell us so much about the church. But, did not give him a break when he thought I was my cousin’s mother. Oh, he said….I see the resemblance. We laughed!!
From the photo above, you can take notice of the wood used….the pews are of native cedar and are pretty much the same as they have always been. The chandelier was ordered from London in 1803 and at the time it was lighted first with candles, then with gas and now it is electrified.
The altar is magnificent and it is also Victorian. The chancel rail is wrought iron and dates to 1772. It is considered a fine example of English hand work of the period. It was the first important piece of wrought iron to be imported to Charleston. And, the chairs were purchased by the Vestry in 1817.
The “Governor’s Pew” is No. 43. It is the one in which President George Washington worshipped on Sunday afternoon on May 8, 1791. General Robert E. Lee also worshipped in that pew some 70 years later. And, I believe, Lafayette also worshipped here, as well.
The organ was installed in 1768. St. Michael’s had one of the first choirs of surpliced boys in the country, going back as far as 1794. The surplice is a tunic of white linen or cotton fabric, reaching to the knees or ankles. It also has wide sleeves.
Most of the churches in Charleston have a cemetery attached to them. There are even tours that take you through these last resting places.
In this particular cemetery there are 2 signers of the U.S. Constitution buried; Charles Cotesworth Pinckney and Presidential Candidate John Rutledge.
Have a great Sunday!!
Tags: Activities, Catholic Church in Charleston, Charleston, Charleston-Holy City, Church Services, Colonial American Church, National Historic Landmark, South Carolina, St. Michael's Church, The South Worships in Historic Churches, Worshipping in Charleston
