If These Walls Could Talk - The Sheldon Church of Beaufort

Blogger: Amber Schamel

This past October, my family and I took a trip to North and South Carolina. As a writer, it's always fun to combine book research with vacation. I love Civil War history especially, and a friend of mine recommended that we visit the Sheldon Church ruins while we were there. I'm so glad we did. Nestled among enchanting oak trees and scattered graves, it is a beautiful and somewhat mysterious place.

The church is outside of Beaufort, SC. It was originally known as Prince William's Parish Church. Built between 1745 and 1753, this church was in a beautiful Greek style. It's building was paid for by Lieutenant Governor William Bull, who had a plantation in the area. The plantation was called Sheldon, and so the church is often referred to by that name as well. Lieutenant Governor Bull attended this church, and is buried on its grounds.

When General Augustine Prevost raided the area during the Revolutionary war, the church was partially burned by local loyalists. The people rebuilt the interior and roof of the church in 1825-1826.

Inside the Sheldon Church

Doesn't it look like a fairytale?

As if this historic building hadn't been through enough already, it was also ransacked when General Sherman made his march from Georgia to the Sea. It was dismantled by local freedmen in the years following.

What remains of the Sheldon Church is extraordinary. I truly wish these beautiful brick walls could talk and tell us of all its history. The Revolution, the marriages, the people, church services, funerals, Civil War, and so much more.

There were many graves that were interesting, including Lt. Gov Bull's, Civil War veterans, and some small children, but there was one in particular that caught my eye and became my favorite. I hope you won't think me grotesque for sharing it with you, because it was just so inspiring.

In case you can't read it, here's what it says:
Until the day breaks and the shadows flee away.
Charles Edward
Eldest son of Rev. Charles E.
Mary Maxcy
Leverett
Born at Beauport, S.C.
January 10, 1833
Died December 21, 1861
Aged 28 years
With the full and animated hope that this mortal would put on immortality through faith in the merits of his Redeemer, Jesus Christ. 

Isn't that just the most beautiful thing you've ever seen on a tombstone? This young man was not much older than me when he passed away, probably a victim of the Civil War, but his tombstone inspired me. I would like something similar if I should have to be buried.

Do you enjoy visiting historical places like this? Have you ever found a monument that inspired you?

 

Amber Schamel writes riveting fiction that brings HIStory to Life. Visit her at www.AmberSchamel.com.