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St.
Paul's Episcopal Church
PENDLETON
In the little town of Pendleton stands an
interesting old Episcopal church, built in the 1820's, which
reflects the influence of the culture of the Low Country. It is a white frame
building erected in the shape of a cross. Its bell tower
contains an old bell from the ship, Seabrook, which sailed from Charleston to
Edisto Island many years ago. The original bell was given to
the cause of the Confederacy during the war.
This church was
established in 1819, the present structure being erected in
1822 and consecrated in 1823. The lumber used was hauled from Augusta by oxen. The records
show that the work was done by Henry Morningstar, whom the
members of the church believe
was of Indian descent. The building is well constructed, the
old handmade square nails being used.
As one enters the
vestibule, there is a winding stair leading to the balcony
where the slaves worshiped. The original pews are still in
use, and the tone of the old
organ is good to this day.
In the graveyard lie many of
the state's most celebrated men and women. Mrs. John C.
Calhoun, who was a life long member of the church, is buried here with several of her
children; also General Barnard E. Bee, who gave the name
"Stonewall'' to General Jackson; William Henry Trescot, historian and U. S.
Diplomat; the Reverend Jasper Adams, first president of Hobart
College, N. Y.; Thomas G. Clemson and his wife, Anna Maria Calhoun
Clemson.
St. Paul's Episcopal Church has never been
inactive at any time in its history.
BY
HAZEL CROWSON SELLERS
South Carolina Churches
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