Charleston’s St. Michael's Church celebrates 275 years

MORNING HEADLINES | St. Michael’s Church, the oldest church building on the Charleston peninsula, today is marking 275 years since its founding.

First commissioned in 1751 and completed in 1761, St. Michael’s remains an active place of worship and one of the city’s most recognizable historic landmarks, welcoming parishioners as well as visitors at the Four Corners of Law at the intersection of Meeting and Broad streets.

Throughout the anniversary year, the church is sharing its history through a monthly exhibition in the narthex. Each installment explores a different chapter in the story of St. Michael’s, from the founding of the parish and construction of the church to its architecture and connections to the Revolutionary era.

“This anniversary gives us an opportunity to reflect on the generations who have worshiped at St. Michael’s and helped shape the church we know today,” said the Rev. Al Zadig Jr., the church’s rector. “It is also a chance to think about what comes next and how we can preserve this special place, better welcome those who visit and continue sharing the gospel for generations to come.”

As part of its efforts to welcome and engage the broader community, St. Michael’s is also expanding opportunities for visitors to experience the church with plans such as self-guided audio tours, a new welcome video and the return of weekday docent-led tours highlighting the church’s history, architecture and ministry.

Local dignitaries will speak at a 10 a.m. press conference today to discuss the church’s history and what’s ahead.

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