Visit
101 Stone CirClemson, SC 29631About
Summary
Old Stone Church, built in 1797–1800 by John Rush, is a historic Presbyterian church in Upstate South Carolina. A National Historic Landmark, it replaced the burned-down Hopewell Church and is associated with figures like General Andrew Pickens and Colonel Robert Anderson. The church and cemetery are cherished for their historical significance and Revolutionary-era connections. Events and services include weddings, funerals, and patriotic gatherings.
Details
Old Stone Church, constructed between 1797 and 1800 by John Rush, was built to replace the Hopewell Presbyterian congregation's burned-down log structure. It is a National Historic Landmark and a key site in Upstate South Carolina's history. The church and its cemetery are home to notable figures such as General Andrew Pickens and Colonel Robert Anderson. The cemetery also contains the graves of Revolutionary War heroes and a supposed witch, Eliza Huger, whose grave is marked by visitor offerings. The church hosts weddings, funerals, patriotic gatherings, and other community events, offering a historic setting for various occasions. While the church itself is no longer accessible, the cemetery remains open to the public.
From Faith Near Me
Old Stone Church in Clemson, SC, stands as a preserved 19th-century Presbyterian landmark offering a quiet, historic atmosphere. First-time visitors will notice the serene cemetery filled with Revolutionary-era graves and historical markers, while the church’s event offerings—weddings, funerals, and patriotic gatherings—reflect a community-focused spirit rooted in tradition.
Pros
- Hosts diverse events including weddings, funerals, and historical tours in a National Historic Landmark setting.
- Cemetery features well-maintained historical markers and graves of notable figures like General Andrew Pickens.
- Offers community gatherings that blend historical preservation with modern celebrations.
- Facilities include a historic church building and accessible cemetery for public visitation.
Cons
- The church building itself is not open to the public, limiting interior access.
- Some informational signage may require updates or repairs for clarity.
- Cemetery areas have reported instances of litter and damaged markers, suggesting maintenance needs.
Reviews from around the web
Public comments we collected from listing sources. Not written on Faith Near Me.
- William Lindseya year ago
Old Stone church and cemetery are amazing. Admittedly, I'm biased, because I have Revolutionary-era relatives buried in the Old Stone cemetery. But for anyone visiting Clemson, this is a most-not-miss historic site. Old Stone Church was built between 1797 and 1800 by John Rush to replace Hopewell church, whose building had burned, and which General Andrew Pickens had named after his home church in Abbeville County, South Carolina, when he moved to Pendleton District. Andrew and wife Rebecca Calhoun are buried in the Old Stone Church cemetery along with family members. On the day we visited the church and cemetery, we were fortunate to find a group working inside the church — it's not normally open to the public — who were preparing it for a special Sunday service the following day. They graciously invited us inside and pointed out various highlights of the interior of the church we wouldn't want to miss.
- ChristiNA BT3 years ago
Unfortunately, the information stands are damaged and almost entirely illegible, and there were liquor bottles on the ground and very strong smell of urine at the bushes by the second group of headstones on the right as we entered to appreciate the historical markers of soldiers of CSA. it was sad to see some tombstones cracked and shattered, but we appreciated that am attempt was made to retain the pieces in their order. The walled-in grave of the brothers was littered and obscured not only by the fact that it, too, had been broken in several pieces, but also by the faded and ratty trash others had left.
- Jeffrey Lee2 years ago
Beautiful old church and cemetery. Well maintained for the most part and several recent restoration projects completed. The information posted at the church is mostly illegible and full of typos which was disappointing. Great little stop in with the family. Spent about thirty minutes before the little one was ready to go. Quiet and no other visitors while we were there.
- Bucky Simmons5 months ago
Visiting my 8th great grandfather General Andrew Pickens and grandmothers graves. A lot of American history lay buried in these grounds.
- Jennifer Drangmeister3 years ago
Signs need to be updated, but otherwise this is a beautiful historic site and cemetery.
- Sam Mauldin9 months ago
I travelled here from Texas to see historical sites associated with Texas history. Thomas J. Rusk’s parents are buried in the old cemetery here; and his father helped build the old church in 1797. It is well-maintained and in good shape for being so old.
- Kels7 years ago
Was a cool place to stop by. The graveyard has some pretty old graves. Should definitely check out!
- Devon Evans5 years ago
Old cemetery in the yard of a church built in 1797 or around that time. A couple of revolutionary war heroes are buried there, including Anderson County's namesake, General Robert Anderson; as well as Pickens county's namesake, Andrew Pickens. Also buried here is a supposed witch, named Eliza Huger. People visit her grave and leave coins and other various knick knacks as gifts. Legend says she was killed by her own brother. The church itself is no longer accessable, but the cemetery is open to the public as far as I know. Just remember to be respectful if you visit, and not to litter or vandalize any of the graves.
- Stephanie Whitea month ago
What a beautiful experience !
- Stephenie Hinson5 years ago
What an amazing place! We didn't have time to walk the entire cemetery. We will definitely be back.
Services and facilities
Services
- Weddings
- Funerals
- Patriotic Gatherings
- Church Services
- Family Reunions
- Meetings Or Lectures
- Holiday Celebrations
- Historical Tours
Facilities
- Cemetery
- Historic Church Building
- Historical Markers
Events and programs
Weddings
As requested
Weddings are hosted at Old Stone Church, offering a historic and picturesque setting for couples.
Funerals
As requested
Funerals are held at Old Stone Church, honoring the site’s historical significance and providing a solemn atmosphere.
Patriotic Gatherings
As requested
Events honoring American history and veterans are held at the church, particularly around July 4th.
Family Reunions
As requested
Family reunions are hosted at Old Stone Church, taking advantage of the site’s historical and scenic qualities.
Meetings or Lectures
As requested
Meetings and lectures are held at the church, often centered around history and community events.
Holiday Celebrations
As requested
Holiday celebrations are hosted at Old Stone Church, offering a unique and historic setting for gatherings.
Connect
- Contact page
- Open contact page