St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church is a historic church located in Pendleton, South Carolina, approximately 25 miles from Seneca. Established on June 17, 1819, it is one of the oldest Episcopal congregations in the Upstate region. The current building was completed in 1822, making it a significant example of early 19th-century architecture in the area.
The church features a traditional Greek Revival design, characterized by its symmetrical façade, gable roof, and prominent bell tower. Notably, the bell tower once housed a bell from the Seabrook, a ship that sailed from Charleston to Edisto Island during that era. The church also includes a winding stairway leading to a balcony originally designated for enslaved individuals to worship.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church has played a pivotal role in the religious and cultural development of the region. It is often referred to as the “mother church” of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Clemson, reflecting its foundational influence on Episcopal ministry in the area.