St. Paul's Episcopal Church
Norfolk's oldest colonial building, featuring a Revolutionary War cannonball and stunning Tiffany stained glass.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
St. Paul's Episcopal Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Norfolk's oldest colonial building, featuring a Revolutionary War cannonball and stunning Tiffany stained glass.
"A tangible piece of history with a cannonball lodged in its wall, this church is a must-see."
🎯 Cannonball Location
Find the cannonball on the southeast corner, near St. Pauls Blvd.
🚗 Parking Caution
Signs indicate short-term parking only; be aware of towing policies.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Revolutionary War Cannonball
Southeast corner of the church
A tangible piece of history, this cannonball from Lord Dunmore's attack is a must-see.
Historic Cemetery & Grounds
Church grounds
Wander through a beautiful, shaded cemetery with graves dating back centuries, including founding fathers.
Stunning Tiffany Stained Glass
Church interior
Admire the breathtaking beauty of intricate Tiffany stained glass windows inside the sanctuary.
Custom-Built English Organ
Church interior
Experience the grandeur of a custom-built organ, shipped from England and played by a dedicated musician.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cannonball & Colonial History
Respectful Visits & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Cannonball Location
Find the cannonball on the southeast corner, near St. Pauls Blvd.
🚗 Parking Caution
Signs indicate short-term parking only; be aware of towing policies.
⛪ Interior Beauty
Ask about seeing the inside; you might get a personal tour!
🎶 Organ Majesty
Don't miss the impressive custom-built organ upstairs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Cannonball Location
Find the cannonball on the southeast corner, near St. Pauls Blvd.
🚗 Parking Caution
Signs indicate short-term parking only; be aware of towing policies.
⛪ Interior Beauty
Ask about seeing the inside; you might get a personal tour!
🎶 Organ Majesty
Don't miss the impressive custom-built organ upstairs.
👻 Haunted History?
Locals share tales of ghostly sightings within the church.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Paul's Episcopal Church for its profound historical significance, particularly the unique Revolutionary War cannonball and its status as Norfolk's oldest surviving colonial building. The beautiful interior, featuring Tiffany stained glass and a custom organ, along with the serene historic cemetery, are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some visitors note potential parking limitations and the importance of respecting its active role as a place of worship.
"I have been to many historic churches across the US. It is very cool that it is the oldest church, and I believe building in Norfolk. This is the 1st that still has a cannon ball still lodged in the building. The grounds are also unique as they are laid out in a cross. There are beautiful old trees and amazing old graves. Google said that it would be closed, so I was pleasantly surprised when Mrs. Major was leaving out of the church and noticed me. She did the unexpected, she asked me if I wanted to see inside. Again, she was leaving, oh and it was on a Friday, so of course I did. It was absolutely beautiful inside. Mrs. Major explained about the inside, pointing out the Tiffany stained class window. Beautiful! I was in all and, then wait for it she pointed out the most breathtaking organ. It was custom built for the church in England and shipped 🚢 to Norfolk. The Ogan player has been playing there for over 25 years. He also plays at a Jewish temple. In that moment, without her even knowing my back story of family members who are Jewish and Christian ✝️, she let me know this Episcopal church ⛪️ was the real deal about God and love. Especially, as I'm a Christian and get so sad with all of the antisemitism Bible teaches, it's not for us to judge. She not only opened the door to the church, but she made it to be a church I want to attend. She also explained that the church is very military friendly. 🪖 It was an absolute 💯 amazing experience. The church inside and out! Mrs. Major really was a pleasure to meet."
Dustie Brown
"Come visit the revolutionary war Cannonball Church! On December 9, 1775, the last royal governor of Virginia, Lord Dunmore, in an act of desperation and anger, attacked Norfolk as he fled Virginia. As he drifted off to sea after being embarrassed at the Battle of Great Bridge, Dunmore shelled the city. It’s believed that the Liverpool, a ship in the Royal Navy, fired the cannonball that became lodged in the side of the church. By the 1830s, the cannonball was no longer in it’s resting place. It was later discovered in the nearby cemetery around ten years later. The cannonball was then returned to its original home on the side of the church. The cannonball is located at the southeast corner of the church, almost against St. Pauls Blvd, GPS coordinates 36.847566, -76.285226. This church is the only colonial-era building that survives to this day in Norfolk. The church has aggressive parking lot signs that imply they'll tow your car if you say longer than a few minutes."
William Carr
"I love this beautiful old church. The grounds are so beautifully kept; it is a lovely place to sit and read a book. It is the sole remaining colonial-era building which has survived the various wars that Norfolk has witnessed. There is even a revolutionary war cannonball lodged in one of the exterior walls!"
Susan Flowers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Paul's Episcopal Church is located at the intersection of St Paul's Blvd and E City Hall Ave in Norfolk, Virginia. It's a central location, easily accessible by car. Public transportation options may also be available depending on your starting point.
Parking is available, but be aware that signs indicate it's for short-term use only, with warnings about towing. It's best to check for nearby public parking if you plan to stay longer.
Using GPS with the address 'St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Norfolk, VA' should guide you directly. The cannonball on the exterior wall is also a distinctive landmark.
While specific routes vary, Norfolk has public transportation services. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for routes that stop near the downtown area where the church is located.
Yes, the church is a historical site and visitors are welcome to explore the grounds and exterior. Inquiries about interior access during non-service hours may be possible, as one visitor experienced a tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required to visit the grounds of St. Paul's Episcopal Church. It is a historical landmark and an active place of worship.
Visiting hours for the grounds are generally during daylight hours. For interior access, it's best to check their official website or contact the church directly, as it is an active place of worship.
There is no admission fee to visit the exterior and grounds of St. Paul's Episcopal Church. Donations are always appreciated to help maintain the historic building.
Yes, St. Paul's Episcopal Church holds regular services. You can find their service schedule on their official website or by contacting the church directly.
St. Paul's Episcopal Church, like many churches, will likely have special services for holidays such as Christmas Eve. It's advisable to check their website or call ahead for specific holiday service times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most famous feature is the Revolutionary War cannonball lodged in the exterior wall, a remnant from Lord Dunmore's attack on Norfolk.
It is the sole surviving colonial-era building in Norfolk, having witnessed numerous wars and historical events.
Inside, visitors can admire beautiful Tiffany stained glass windows and a breathtaking, custom-built organ from England.
Absolutely! The grounds feature a beautiful, shaded cemetery with headstones dating back to the 1600s, offering a glimpse into the area's past.
Yes, according to local lore, there have been reports of ghostly sightings within the church, adding a layer of paranormal intrigue.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography of the exterior and grounds is generally permitted. For interior photography, especially during services, it's best to ask for permission beforehand to be respectful.
The cannonball embedded in the wall is a unique photo opportunity. The historic cemetery and the church's architecture also make for great shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around places of worship. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
The Tiffany stained glass windows and the intricate details of the custom-built organ are highly photogenic interior features.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the church and its grounds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the interior is beautiful, keep in mind it's an active place of worship. Consider visiting during non-service hours for a more relaxed exploration. The well-kept grounds provide space for children to move around respectfully. Remember to be mindful of parking regulations if you're driving.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the chance to explore the interior, especially the Tiffany stained glass and the historic organ. These elements showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of different eras. The church's role in the community, including its military-friendly stance, adds another layer to its historical significance.
📸 Photographers
Inside, the Tiffany stained glass windows are a dream for capturing light and color. The grand organ presents opportunities for detailed shots of its intricate design. Always be respectful of the space and any ongoing services when planning your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cannonball: A Scar of History
This unique historical marker makes St. Paul's Episcopal Church stand out among other historic sites. It’s not just a building; it’s a witness to pivotal moments in American history. The cannonball's presence is a powerful visual that sparks curiosity and conversation about the events that shaped the nation.
Architectural Gem and Interior Splendor
Step inside, and you'll be greeted by breathtaking beauty. The sanctuary features exquisite Tiffany stained glass windows, casting colorful light throughout the space. Dominating the interior is a magnificent custom-built organ, originally crafted in England and shipped to Norfolk. The organist, who has played there for over 25 years, adds to the spiritual and artistic experience of the church.
Community and Legacy
The church's cemetery holds the graves of many founding fathers of the Norfolk area, underscoring its deep roots in the community's history. This legacy is preserved not only in the stones of the cemetery but also in the ongoing life and ministry of the church.
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