Old Stone Church and Cemetery
A historic stone church and cemetery with deep roots in the American Revolution and local legends.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Church may be open for services
Old Stone Church and Cemetery
Best Time
Church may be open for services
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic stone church and cemetery with deep roots in the American Revolution and local legends.
"A most-not-miss historic site for anyone visiting Clemson, connecting centuries of stories."
🚗 Parking Near Stadium
For Clemson football games, consider Old Stadium Road for free parking on golf courses. :car:
📜 Check Church Access
The church interior isn't always open; inquire about special service days for access. :church:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
General Andrew Pickens' Grave
Old Stone Church Cemetery
Visit the final resting place of Revolutionary War General Andrew Pickens and his wife Rebecca Calhoun.
The 'Witch of Old Stone Church'
Old Stone Church Cemetery
Discover the chilling legend of Eliza Huger, rumored to attract lightning and still wander the grounds.
Revolutionary War & CSA Burials
Old Stone Church Cemetery
Explore the cemetery's historical significance, with graves of veterans from the American Revolution and the Civil War.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Near Stadium
For Clemson football games, consider Old Stadium Road for free parking on golf courses. :car:
📜 Check Church Access
The church interior isn't always open; inquire about special service days for access. :church:
👻 Local Legends
Listen for tales of the 'Witch of Old Stone Church' and other local hauntings. +1 :ghost:
🚶♂️ Respect the Site
Be mindful of gravesites and damaged historical markers. :pray:
Football Parking
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Near Stadium
For Clemson football games, consider Old Stadium Road for free parking on golf courses. :car:
📜 Check Church Access
The church interior isn't always open; inquire about special service days for access. :church:
👻 Local Legends
Listen for tales of the 'Witch of Old Stone Church' and other local hauntings. +1 :ghost:
🚶♂️ Respect the Site
Be mindful of gravesites and damaged historical markers. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Old Stone Church and Cemetery for its significant historical value, particularly its connection to Revolutionary War figures like General Andrew Pickens and its well-preserved old cemetery. However, some reviewers note that informational signage is outdated and illegible, and that certain areas of the cemetery could benefit from better upkeep and litter removal.
"Old Stone church and cemetery are amazing. Admittedly, I'm biased, because I have Revolutionary-era relatives buried in the Old Stone cemetery. But for anyone visiting Clemson, this is a most-not-miss historic site.
Old Stone Church was built between 1797 and 1800 by John Rush to replace Hopewell church, whose building had burned, and which General Andrew Pickens had named after his home church in Abbeville County, South Carolina, when he moved to Pendleton District. Andrew and wife Rebecca Calhoun are buried in the Old Stone Church cemetery along with family members.
On the day we visited the church and cemetery, we were fortunate to find a group working inside the church — it's not normally open to the public — who were preparing it for a special Sunday service the following day. They graciously invited us inside and pointed out various highlights of the interior of the church we wouldn't want to miss."
William Lindsey
"I travelled here from Texas to see historical sites associated with Texas history.
Thomas J. Rusk’s parents are buried in the old cemetery here; and his father helped build the old church in 1797.
It is well-maintained and in good shape for being so old."
Sam Mauldin
"Unfortunately, the information stands are damaged and almost entirely illegible, and there were liquor bottles on the ground and very strong smell of urine at the bushes by the second group of headstones on the right as we entered to appreciate the historical markers of soldiers of CSA. it was sad to see some tombstones cracked and shattered, but we appreciated that am attempt was made to retain the pieces in their order.
The walled-in grave of the brothers was littered and obscured not only by the fact that it, too, had been broken in several pieces, but also by the faded and ratty trash others had left."
ChristiNA BT
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Stone Church and Cemetery is located just outside of Clemson University. Depending on your starting point, you can drive there in a few minutes. For Clemson football games, parking can be challenging, but some free parking is available on golf courses along Old Stadium Road.
While specific public transport routes directly to the church are not widely advertised, it's a short drive from Clemson University, which may have bus services.
From Clemson, you can typically take Old Stone Church Road or similar local routes. If attending a game, Old Stadium Road offers access to some parking areas.
Parking is generally available, but can be more challenging during Clemson football game days. Consider parking further out and walking or using alternative transport if attending an event.
It's a bit of a walk from the main campus of Clemson University, likely a few miles. Driving or using a ride-share service is more practical.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit the Old Stone Church and Cemetery. Entry to the cemetery is free and open to the public.
The Old Stone Church building itself is not always open to the public. It's best to check for special service days or events if you wish to see the interior.
Yes, the Old Stone Church Cemetery is generally accessible at all times for visitors to explore and pay respects.
There is no admission fee to enter and explore the Old Stone Church Cemetery.
Access to the church interior is limited and not guaranteed. Visitors are sometimes allowed in on special service days or if a group is preparing for an event.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic Old Stone Church building (exterior), visit the gravesites of notable figures like General Andrew Pickens, and learn about local legends like the 'Witch of Old Stone Church'. +2
A visit can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in historical details and exploring the cemetery thoroughly.
There are historical markers, but some may be damaged or illegible. Visitors have noted that signs need updating.
Yes, it can be a good stop for families interested in history. It's a quiet place for a brief educational visit, though younger children might have limited attention spans.
Many tombstones are old and some are cracked or shattered, but efforts are made to keep pieces in order. Some areas may show signs of litter.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed at the Old Stone Church and Cemetery. It's a popular spot for historical and atmospheric photos. +2
The exterior of the stone church itself, the old tombstones, and the scenic cemetery grounds offer great photographic opportunities. +2
While generally permitted, always be respectful of the solemn nature of a cemetery and avoid intrusive photography of any ongoing services or private memorials.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances and ensure you are not disturbing visitors or violating privacy before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, atmospheric shots of the stone church and cemetery. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit concise, as younger children might find a long exploration of tombstones less captivating. Thirty minutes is often sufficient for a family to get a feel for the site. Be prepared for uneven ground in the cemetery and ensure children are supervised and respectful of the gravesites.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
While the paranormal aspect is a popular topic, remember that the site is also a place of historical significance and remembrance. Approach your exploration with respect for the history and the individuals buried there, even as you seek out the eerie tales.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Historical Significance
Beyond its military and religious history, the Old Stone Church and Cemetery is steeped in local lore. One of the most enduring tales is that of Eliza Huger, often referred to as the 'Witch of Old Stone Church.' Legends claim her grave attracted lightning and that her spirit still roams the grounds. These stories add a layer of intrigue and mystery to the site, drawing visitors interested in local folklore and paranormal accounts.
While the historical importance is undeniable, some visitors have noted that the site's informational signage is in disrepair, making it challenging to fully appreciate the historical context without prior research. Despite this, the well-maintained grounds and the palpable sense of history make it a compelling stop for history buffs and those interested in local legends.
Exploring the Cemetery
Visitors should be aware that due to its age, many of the tombstones are weathered, with some cracked or shattered. While efforts are made to preserve and order the pieces, the condition of some markers adds to the site's aged atmosphere. Some reviewers have noted instances of litter or damage to certain grave sites, which can be disheartening but doesn't detract from the overall historical significance.
Despite the wear and tear of time, the cemetery remains a well-maintained and significant historical site. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with local history and the stories of those who came before. The presence of graves from the Revolutionary War and the Civil War makes it a particularly poignant destination for those interested in American military history.
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