Visit Staunton’s oldest church, now on its third building
Trinity Episcopal Church, located at 214 W. Beverley St., Staunton, Virginia. Built in a Neo-Gothic style, the church was added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 1972.
Why it matters
The first building, just 25 by 40 feet, was constructed in 1763. A plaque on the property notes that the Virginia Assembly met at the church in 1781 after fleeing Richmond and then Charlottesville to avoid capture by British raiders. The current church, built in 1855, was used by the Virginia Theological Seminary during the Civil War. The church is also known for its collection of 25 stained glass windows.
What to see
The most recent building was designed by English architect J.W. Johns, known for designing the Anglican cathedral in Jerusalem. Outside, visitors can take a walk through history on the church grounds, where a plaque lists all of the Virginia Assembly members who used the building in the 1700s. Another plaque describes the tombstone of Dr. Alexander Humphreys, an Irish-American doctor who operated a training school for physicians in Staunton in the 1780s. Seventeen American Revolution soldiers are also buried in the courtyard. Of the 25 stained glass windows in the church, 12 are from Tiffany Studios. “Tiffany windows are famous for a rich palette of what is literally sculpted glass, often arranged in layers,” according to the church.
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How to visit
Self‑guided tours that specifically focus on the stained glass windows are available along with a downloadable brochure. Brochures are also available at the church. Hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Monday through Thursday. Guided tours on Saturday are typically held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., but the church suggests contacting its office beforehand at 540-886-9132.
Getting there
From Interstate 81, take Exit 222 and follow U.S. 250 West (Richmond Avenue) toward downtown Staunton for almost 3 miles. Turn right onto U.S. 11 Business (Greenville Avenue), then immediately turn left — remaining on Greenville Avenue — after passing under the railroad tracks. Continue on Greenville Avenue, which becomes Johnson Street. After a couple of blocks, turn right onto Lewis Street; the church, on West Beverley Street, will be on the left.
Staunton’s rich architecture from the 19th century is a must-see…