St. Michael's Church
Charleston's oldest church, a National Historic Landmark, where George Washington worshipped and Constitution Signers rest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
St. Michael's Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Charleston's oldest church, a National Historic Landmark, where George Washington worshipped and Constitution Signers rest.
"A must-see for its impressive history and stunning architecture, feeling like stepping back in time."
📸 Capture the Carriage
Horse-drawn carriages often pass by, offering iconic photo ops with the church. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the French Quarter
St. Michael's is in Charleston's charming French Quarter. Wander nearby alleys for hidden gems. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
George Washington's Pew
Main Sanctuary
Sit (or stand) where the first U.S. President once worshipped. A truly historic moment.
Stunning Tiffany Windows
Main Sanctuary
Admire the intricate beauty of four stained glass windows crafted by the renowned Tiffany Company.
Historic Churchyard
Exterior Grounds
Explore the resting place of two U.S. Constitution signers and soak in centuries of history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Embrace the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Carriage
Horse-drawn carriages often pass by, offering iconic photo ops with the church. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the French Quarter
St. Michael's is in Charleston's charming French Quarter. Wander nearby alleys for hidden gems. :world_map:
🕰️ Appreciate the Age
Built in 1761, it's Charleston's oldest surviving religious structure. Feel the history! :old_key:
🙏 Quiet Reflection
The sanctuary is perfect for quiet contemplation and prayer. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Carriage
Horse-drawn carriages often pass by, offering iconic photo ops with the church. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the French Quarter
St. Michael's is in Charleston's charming French Quarter. Wander nearby alleys for hidden gems. :world_map:
🕰️ Appreciate the Age
Built in 1761, it's Charleston's oldest surviving religious structure. Feel the history! :old_key:
🙏 Quiet Reflection
The sanctuary is perfect for quiet contemplation and prayer. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Michael's Church for its profound historical significance and stunning architecture. Many are awed by its age and resilience, with particular highlights being George Washington's pew and the Tiffany stained glass windows. The churchyard also offers a poignant connection to America's founding figures.
"It is located in Charleston’s French Quarter: A small neighborhood in the historic district, the French Quarter, gets its name from many French Huguenots who fled religious persecution and settled there.
Luckily I got a chance to take a photo with a Horse carriage in front of it, which itself is an iconic photo.
My mind can’t comprehend that it was built over 250 years ago, completed, and opened for service in 1761! It is the oldest surviving religious structure in all of Charleston and is a National Historic Landmark located at the corner of Meeting and Broad Street.
St. Michael's Episcopal Church, a National Historic Landmark, dates to 1751 and is known for its four stained glass windows by the Tiffany Company of New York and for the cedar pew where George Washington sat in 1791.
As the horse and carriage rides travel past the intersection known as the Four Corners of Law, one can overhear the carriage drivers educating their passengers about significant historic moments in Charleston that took place at this location. President George Washington attended a service in St. Michael’s Church back on May 8, 1791
Interesting fact: The bells of St. Michael's Episcopal Church are among the greatest treasures in a city filled with treasures of the heart. St. Michael’s is the oldest church building in Charleston, having survived hurricanes, earthquakes and fires – not to mention the devastation left behind by the bombardment and occupation of two wars."
Sanjay Gupta
"Gorgeous church! We would’ve liked to have attended service but just walked through. We didn’t come in contact with any staff but spoke with others touring. The beautiful architecture and devine detail that was put into every inch of this building was truly amazing. The boxed-in pews were pretty neat. We were told that they were for families and the one we took a picture of is the spot that George Washington himself sat. Impressive history for this area. Grounds are well maintained."
Jenn Lawrence
"Here in the churchyard of
St. Michael's lie buried
two Signers of the
U.S. Constitution
Charles Cotesworth
Pickney
(1746-1825)
Lawyer and Legislator
Major General, U.S. Army
Minister to France
Presidential candidate
John Rutledge
(1739-1800)
Lawyer and Statesman Governor of South Carolina Chief Justice of the U.S.
Their years of public service, 1762-1825, saw both State and Nation well on the road to greatness."
Roads Traveled Photography
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Michael's Church is located at the corner of Meeting and Broad Street in Charleston's historic French Quarter. It's easily accessible by foot if you're exploring the historic district. Parking can be challenging in this area, so consider using ride-sharing services or public transport if available.
Yes, it's centrally located within Charleston's historic district, making it easy to combine with visits to other landmarks, shops, and restaurants.
Many horse carriage tours in Charleston pass by St. Michael's Church, often highlighting its historical significance, including George Washington's visit. It's a popular spot for these tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, you can visit the church and its grounds without purchasing a ticket. However, donations are appreciated to help with the upkeep of this historic landmark.
Opening hours can vary, but the church is typically open for visitors during daylight hours on weekdays and Saturdays, and for services on Sundays. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most current hours.
There is no strict admission fee, but donations are highly encouraged to support the preservation of this historic site.
Absolutely! St. Michael's is an active Episcopal church and welcomes visitors to attend their regular services. Check their schedule for times.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the church, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services or other visitors. Avoid flash photography to protect the historic interiors and stained glass.
The exterior architecture, the churchyard with its historic tombstones, and the iconic steeple are great for exterior shots. Inside, focus on the unique pews, stained glass, and altar.
While generally allowed, it's best to be discreet and respectful. Some areas might have specific signage regarding photography.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
St. Michael's Church, built in 1761, is the oldest surviving religious structure in Charleston and a National Historic Landmark. It has witnessed significant historical events and survived numerous challenges.
Yes, President George Washington attended a service at St. Michael's Church on May 8, 1791, and there is a specific pew designated where he sat.
The churchyard is the final resting place for notable figures, including two signers of the U.S. Constitution: Charles Cotesworth Pinckney and John Rutledge.
The bells of St. Michael's are considered among the city's treasures. The church itself has a remarkable history of survival through hurricanes, earthquakes, fires, and wars.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during quieter times to allow children to explore the churchyard without feeling rushed. The French Quarter itself is also a great area for families to explore with its charming streets and horse-drawn carriages, which often pass by the church, providing an extra element of excitement.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the chance to see George Washington's pew and the graves of Constitution Signers Pinckney and Rutledge in the churchyard. The Tiffany stained glass windows also represent a significant artistic and historical element. Engaging with the stories behind these features will provide a rich and rewarding experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Charleston's Past
The church's significance is further amplified by its connection to prominent historical figures. Notably, President George Washington attended a service here on May 8, 1791, and a specific cedar pew is preserved in his honor. The churchyard itself is a place of historical importance, serving as the burial ground for two Signers of the U.S. Constitution: Charles Cotesworth Pinckney and John Rutledge. Their presence underscores the church's role in the foundational years of the United States.
Beyond its historical figures, St. Michael's is also known for its artistic treasures, including four stained glass windows by the Tiffany Company of New York. The unique boxed-in pews also offer a glimpse into historical church design. The church's bells are considered a significant treasure, adding to its rich tapestry of history and culture.
Experiencing St. Michael's Today
For those seeking a moment of peace, the sanctuary provides an ideal setting for contemplative prayer and quiet reflection. The serene atmosphere, combined with the weight of centuries of history, can be a deeply moving experience. Visitors often speak of the 'holiness and love of God' felt within its walls.
Beyond the sanctuary, the churchyard is a must-explore. It's not only a place of quiet beauty but also a historical archive, with the graves of significant figures like Pinckney and Rutledge. Taking a moment to read their inscriptions offers a tangible link to America's founding.
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