Old Sheldon Church Ruins — Attraction in South Carolina

We were so lucky to have found this place! Our first knowledge of this beautiful ruins came from a "Carolinas Screen Saver" we purchased on our Roku! We have visited Hunting Island in the past, and after a little investigation realized that Old Sheldon Church Ruins was not too far off our usual path to visit. We arrived right at dusk, and it was amazing! We'll definitely be back for a more well lighted visit later, but the dusk visit gave it such an otherworldly feeling! These ruins are in private ownership with some sort of trust to the state of SC... It seems to be a good set up, it's working. The history of the place is amazing, as is the architecture. The fact that the original well is still there and It WORKS is simply phenomenal. Our pictures came out dark, but they convey a little of that special eerie feeling we got going at dusk. The trees hang over the narrow entrance road with Spanish moss making the approach even darker... It's amazing. Disclaimer: there are automatic floodlights that will come on when you step out of your car... And we were visited by someone who appears to be a caretaker there. They did not speak to us, but appeared soon after we arrived, and left right behind us as we left. She did not enter upon the grounds, but watched us closely while we explored the ruins. Probably just checking to see that we...

A worthwhile detour off of I-95, Sheldon Church Ruins is a peaceful and quiet historical landmark. The scenic tree lined drive to the ruins prepares you for the thoughtfully maintained grounds.

A misty, overcast day was perfect for our visit. The tall trees dripping with Spanish moss and the sun peeking out through the trees really conveyed the feeling of the moment.

There is limited street parking with a gravel parking lot directly across the street. Be careful crossing the two lane highway! The enterance has a handicap accessible ramp,vnot often seen at similar venues. There are picnic tables to sit, rest and eat as well as a working hand water pump. The immediate area surrounding the ruins is fenced off, but this in no way hinders photography.

The area contains several graves, some with headstones within and outside the fenced border. The ruins contain a plaque outlining a brief history as does a historical highway marker at the park enterance.

It's absolutely worth the detour to see and experience this...

Beautiful as always but I was very disappointed to see that a fence had been placed around the church and the several of the graves. I of course understand why but I would much rather pay to go through a gate to be allowed to view the entire church and all the graves and property than not be allowed to see the inside and touch the walls of such history than to only be allowed to see it from a distance. At least charging admission could help maintain the grounds and property and contribute to the care of history vs. denying future generations the opportunity to appreciate as I did as a child. It still remains a peaceful and holy place to me but will never be the same to me. I am disappointed to see that ignorance and vandalism has once again destroyed something beautiful and historical that my generations children's children will never be able to see up close and personally touch...