Last Updated on June 5, 2025 by PorchLightReading
Family guide to visiting the Old Sheldon Church Ruins near Beaufort, SC. Including a brief history, photo gallery, and other things to do in the area.
One weekend morning while sipping our coffee on the patio, I got an urge to hop in the car and explore the Lowcountry of South Carolina with our family. For a while I had been waiting for an opportunity to explore the Beaufort area and the Old Sheldon Church Ruins were calling my name.
So in T-minus 30 minutes we had a picnic lunch packed along with everything else we might need on our adventure. Bathings suits, sneakers, bug spray, suntan lotion, toys, books, and anything else you could think of for the hour drive.
My husband was not impressed with the packing list, but he put it in the truck anyway.
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- Table of contents: Old Sheldon Church Ruins
- A brief history
- Fires of destruction
- Exploring the property
- Why you should visit
- Other things to do in the area
- Final thoughts
Tucked away in the peaceful woods of Beaufort County, these ruins are a hauntingly beautiful reminder of the past. With towering brick walls, grand columns, and a serene atmosphere, the Old Sheldon Church Ruins are not only a photographer’s dream but also a place steeped in history.
OLD SHELDON CHURCH RUINS
Visiting the Old Sheldon Church Ruins is like stepping back in time. Walking through the iron gate you’ll notice an informational sign directly in front of you. Be sure to take a moment and read about the history of the church before you start exploring the area.
- Location: Old Sheldon Church Rd. Yemassee, South Carolina
- Admission: Free (donation appreciated)
- Parking: Small parking spot off side of road in front of entrance. Overflow parking directly across the street.
A BRIEF HISTORY
Old Sheldon Church was constructed over 270 years ago between 1745-1753. It was originally known as Prince William’s Parish Church and was commission by William Bull, a well respected land owner and lieutenant governor of South Carolina. For years the church served as a place of worship and social gathering before it fell into ruin.
FIRES OF DESTRUCTION
The history of Old Sheldon Church is marked my two significant events. The first occurred in 1779 during the American Revolution when British forces set the church on fire. It sat in ruins for some time but in 1826 the community was able to rebuild the church back to its former glory.
Sadly, just a short 40 years later, during the Civil War, the church was once again destroyed. It was long time believed that Union troops, under General William Tecumseh Sherman, set fire to the church but over the years a letter was found by local resident, Mary Bull, that disproved this theory.
The church was not set on fire a second time, but instead, dismantled by locals who were in desperate need of building materials during the war. The church never recovered and has turned into the ruins you see today.
EXPLORING THE PROPERTY
As you slowly make your way around the property, you should reflect on how this place has come to be. Gravestones are scattered though-out, an old water pump sits on the left as you walk in, and a few picnic tables are shaded by giant live oak trees covered in Spanish moss.
The Ruins- Towering brick walls and grand columns hundreds of years old.
Gravestones- Gravestones dating back a century, including that of William Bull, the church’s original patron.
Live Oak Trees- Beautiful live oak tress dripping in Spanish moss.
Old Water Pump- Old hand water pump that still works today.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT
The Old Sheldon Church Ruins are more than just a historical site, they are a place of quiet reflection and enduring beauty. The story of this church, with its cycles of destruction and rebuilding, mirrors the resilience and strength of the people who once worshipped here.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photographer, or looking for a quite drive with a small adventure, the Old Sheldon Church Ruins are a place that will leave a lasting impression.
THINGS TO DO IN THE AREA
Since we’ve traveled all this way, we should take some time to explore the area. Just down the road you’ll find a charming little country store call the Carolina Cider Company. There they offer coffee, bakery, and handcrafted gifts among other items. It’s the perfect little stop before explore a bit more.
Just a short drive down the road you’ll find the beautiful town of Beaufort. Be sure to stop in town for a little shopping or to grab a bite in one of their restaurants. Before you head home, take a stroll along the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. You can find public parking right downtown across from Newcastle St. and Bay St.
- Carolina Cider Company
- Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
- Beaufort History Museum
- Fort Fremont Preserve
- Saint Helena Parish Chapel of Ease Ruins
- Cypress Wetlands
- Kazoobie Kazoo Factory, Museum and Gift Shop
FINAL THOUGHTS
Although we may have overpacked, it was a day full of adventure. With it only being a short drive from Charleston, it was an easy day trip of exploring the Old Sheldon Church Ruins, and also the charming town of Beaufort.
We’ll see you on our next adventure!
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