048-0021 St. Paul's Episcopal Church

For additional information, read the Nomination Form PDF

VLR Listing Date 01/16/1973

NRHP Listing Date 05/25/1973

NRHP Reference Number 73002028

One of two remaining Virginia colonial churches with a true Greek Cross plan and two tiers of windows, St. Paul’s was constructed in 1766 and is the third church to serve its parish. The simplicity of its exterior, relieved only by its fine brickwork and modillion cornice, make the building more akin architecturally to English dissenter chapels of the period than to the richer Georgian churches of the colony. Although the church fell derelict after the disestablishment, it was renovated as a school by 1813 and by 1830 was returned to the Episcopalians. As a result of this unsettled period, the present woodwork, both inside and out, is mostly 19th century. The church preserves its rural setting. The communion service of 1721 and a 1762 Bible are treasured possessions of the parish.

Abbreviations:
VLR: Virginia Landmarks Register
NPS: National Park Service
NRHP: National Register of Historic Places
NHL: National Historic Landmark

Updated: April 10, 2021