Trinity Episcopal Cathedral

Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, located in the heart of Columbia, South Carolina, stands as a beacon of history, faith, and architectural splendor. As the first Episcopal and the oldest surviving sanctuary in the city, this Gothic Revival church has a rich legacy that dates back to the early 19th century. Its majestic twin towers and intricate design elements make it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring Columbia.

The Early History of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral

The story of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral begins in 1812 when the Society for the Advancement of Christianity in South Carolina sent Reverend Fowler to establish a mission in Columbia. The parish was officially organized on August 8, 1812, and Bishop Theodore Dehon held the first services at the State House in May 1813. The South Carolina Legislature played a pivotal role in the church's early development by granting four lots on Lady Street to the Presbyterian and Episcopal congregations. The Episcopalians sold their lots to the Presbyterians, which facilitated the construction of the First Presbyterian Church.

The cornerstone for the first Trinity Church building was laid on March 7, 1814, and the wooden church was consecrated by Bishop Dehon on December 14 of the same year. This original structure, located at the southeastern corner of Sumter and Gervais Streets, had a cruciform shape. General Hampton's generous donation of $2,000 and an organ significantly contributed to the church's establishment.

Architectural Marvel: The Gothic Revival Design

The current Gothic Revival structure of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, designed by Edward Brickell White, draws inspiration from the medieval York Minster in England. The cornerstone for this architectural gem was laid on November 26, 1845, by the rector Peter Shand. Although initially designed with a cruciform layout, only the nave and the twin towers were completed. Each tower is adorned with eight pinnacles topped with a fleur-de-lis, and the brick structure is coated with buff stucco.

The nave features a clerestory, the only one of its kind in Columbia, and the roof is supported by exposed wooden beams. The church's walls and towers are reinforced with shouldered buttresses, adding to its Gothic charm. The interior boasts a baptismal font sculpted by Hiram Powers, stained-glass windows from Munich, and a Jardine chancel organ installed in the late 19th century.

A Sanctuary Through Turbulent Times

Trinity Episcopal Cathedral has weathered many storms throughout its history. During the Civil War, local tradition holds that parishioners removed Episcopal signs and placed paper-mâché crosses on the roof to protect the church from Union forces under General Sherman, who was Catholic. Although the rectory was destroyed in the 1865 fire set by Sherman's army, the church itself survived.

In the aftermath of the war, the church faced new challenges. In June 1865, the commander of the Union garrison in Columbia ordered Reverend Shand to include a prayer for the president in the Book of Common Prayer. Shand complied, but the parishioners' silent protest by rising from their knees and not saying Amen speaks volumes about the congregation's resilience and spirit.

The Cathedral's Evolution

In 1922, the Diocese of South Carolina was divided, and Trinity Church became part of the newly formed Episcopal Diocese of Upper South Carolina. On January 19, 1977, the church was designated as the cathedral of the diocese, solidifying its status as a central place of worship and community.

The churchyard of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral is a historic site in its own right, with three live oak trees planted at different times in the parish's history. The churchyard is also the final resting place for many notable South Carolinians, including American Revolutionary War generals Wade Hampton I and Peter Horry, poet Henry Timrod, and six South Carolina governors.

Visiting Trinity Episcopal Cathedral

A visit to Trinity Episcopal Cathedral offers a journey through time, showcasing the rich history and architectural beauty of this iconic church. As you approach the cathedral, the twin towers and the intricate Gothic details immediately capture your attention. Inside, the serene atmosphere and the stunning stained-glass windows create a sense of reverence and awe.

Take a moment to explore the churchyard, where the historic live oaks and the graves of notable South Carolinians provide a poignant reminder of the past. The wrought iron fence surrounding the churchyard adds to the sense of history and timelessness.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a place of tranquility, Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Columbia, South Carolina, is a destination that promises to inspire and captivate. Its enduring legacy and architectural grandeur make it a true gem in the heart of the city.