41″x 30″ oil on canvas ©2014 C.Hutson Wrenn
This painting was commissioned by Rick Parler of Charlotte, North Carolina, whose family is from Barnwell, South Carolina.
Located north of Beaufort, South Carolina, just off Hwy 17 at Hwy 21, Sheldon Church has lain in ruin for more than 120 years. Its gable roof, pediment, windows, and interior have disappeared, but the classic simplicity of its design still remains. One of the first Greek-Revival structures built in the United States, Prince William’s Parish Church, erected 1745-55, was once one of the most impressive churches in the Province. During the Revolution, the Patriots are believed to have stored gun powder in it. In 1779, when the British General Augustine Prevost invaded the Lowcountry, the church was burned by a detachment which according to tradition, was commanded by the flamboyant local Tory, Andrew Deveaux. Rebuilt in 1826, the church was again burned by Sherman’s men in 1865.
Its beauty remains evocative. It was my privilege to paint it.
I was called to be an artist. And as an old old midwife said to me "If the Lord wants you to do something, you won't have no good luck' til you do." So, here I am, sharing what I love, longing to illuminate the work of art, which is everywhere.
Charleston Through an Artist's eye 
wonderful Charlotte! hats off both to you and your patron-Great Grandpa would be proud i think!
I clicked “like” ….. but “covet” is more accurate.
Kim! That makes me so happy! I want you to have art! xo
Thanks. Charlotte, for a specie rendition of that great ruin..Sheldon. The place is a historical treasure, and I love to make visits there…..usually no one else is there, save the ancient live oaks, streaming with Mardi Grass, as we used to call Spanish moss in my childhood. So glad you did the painting! And as Mike says, GGP Hutson would love it, too!
Peter! Wow, thank you for taking the time to write. Mardi Grass! ha! And yes, it is such a magical place. We must see each other soon. I remember the lovely dinner at your house; how gracious y’all were. I must have you over here soon! With fondness, cousin Charlotte
Thanks for sharing this story. I hope to be able to see the church next time I’m in the area. Your painting is beautiful.