Old Sheldon Church is the most haunting ruins in South Carolina. The Greek Revival structure was built in the 1740s, burned by the British in 1779 during the Revolutionary War, partially rebuilt, then burned again by Sherman’s troops in 1865. What remains are massive tabby columns standing in a field of Spanish moss, open to the sky, surrounded by ancient live oaks.
The ruins are free to visit and open year-round. A short walk around the perimeter takes 20 to 30 minutes. The site is maintained by Prince George Winyah Episcopal Church and is used for an annual outdoor service each spring.