Saturday, April 10, 2010

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, S.C.
On Meeting Street is this splendid example of Post-Colonial architecture, build about 1811.  Interesting is the three story octagonal bay on the side and the transomed entrance portal with its elliptical fanlight.  Also, the wrought iron balcony at the second-story level bears the monogram of the original owner.  Interior, decorated in the Adam style, is planned with an oval drawing room and a graceful spiral stairway.  Open to the public.

Oldest Church in South Carolina
Goose Creek Church - Near Charleston, S.C.
St. James' Parish, Goose Creek, was established in 1706 and the building was completed in 1719.  The only church not profaned by the British in the Revolutionary War possibly because the Royal Arms were allowed to remain over the altar.  The Episcopal Church is architecturally one of the finest in the area.

Old St. Andrews - Near Charleston, S.C.
On the Asheley River Road is this old Episcopal Church completed as a cruciform in 1733, burned in 1763, and later rebuilt by popular subscription.  The Church, like many others, formerly served as a financial yardstick for its parisioners - the front pews renting higher than the rear ones.

First Presbyterian Church - Charleston, S.C.
Congregation dates from 1731 when Scottish families withdrew from the original Presbyterian body and bought this site where the present structure was erected in 1814.  Its fine auditorium contains many mural tablets and in the adjoining churchyard are buried some famous Charlestonians.  Land titles stipulated that the property should be used only for a Presbyterian Church retaining the Church of Scotland form of government.

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