Explore Beaufort SC
Old Sheldon Church Ruins
One of the more interesting tourist attractions near Beaufort SC is the site of the Old Sheldon Church Ruins. It didn't seem
very interesting to me at first, but my husband wanted to stop there. I fully expected it to be boring and I figured it would only take
a few minutes to look around.
There is no true parking available and you just pull your car off the road when you come to visit.
The Old Sheldon Church Ruins are just about a 30 minute drive from the City of Beaufort.
The ruins of this building are all that remain of what was once Prince Williams Parish in Beaufort SC. The name was changed to Sheldon Church out of
respect for William Bull, who was a very prominent citizen. This man was not only the Lt Governor of SC; he was also the Commissioner
for the construction of this building.
Sheldon Church was the name of William Bulls familys home back in England. This former Lt
Governors tombstone can still be viewed at the churchs graveyard just outside the City of Beaufort South Carolina.
Sheldon Church dates back to the mid 18th century. It is believed to have been constructed between 1745 and 1755.The building was
destroyed by fire on two different occasions.
The first fire was set during the Revolutionary War. British soldiers were
responsible for this arson, but the people of Beaufort SC rebuilt the church.
Then during the Civil War, the Union troops again set the church ablaze.
This time there would be no rebuilding; and only a few pillars and pieces of the exterior walls continue to stand at this historic site just outside the City of Beaufort.
There is something both sad and inspiring about visiting this area of Beaufort South Carolina and if you have any interest in history, you should enjoy a short visit to this tourist
attraction.
The hand operated water pump at the front gate works, and kids are especially fascinated with this relic from bygone days of Beaufort. A lot of
people choose this site to stop for a picnic, and there are wedding receptions frequently held on the grounds.
The live oaks add shade
and visual appeal with their giant branches and trailing webs of Spanish moss. This is just a place with a story to tell, but it is one
of the more interesting and enduring bits of Low Country history near Beaufort South Carolina.
Where are Sheldon Church Ruins in Beaufort SC?
- Sheldon Church Ruins are located on Sheldon Road between Yemassee and Gardens Corner.
- From Beaufort take US 21 North.
- At the intersection of US 17 and Gardens Corner turn left, go past the stop sign and go about a quarter of mile.
- At Sheldon Church Road turn right. Look for Bull Point Plantation across the street.
- Drive about two more miles; look for the ruins on the right side. Just pull off and park anywhere.
