From colonial-era sanctuaries to enduring landmarks, these churches reflect Virginia’s faith, craftsmanship, and centuries-old stories
By Dave Bodle
When English settlers founded Jamestown in 1607, they brought the Church of England (Anglicanism) with them, which became the officially established church in Virginia in 1619. Anglican services were central to both spiritual and civic life in the colony, and parish vestries wielded significant local influence. On the eve of the American Revolution, the Church of England was as powerful as it ever was.
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Over time, other Protestant groups, such as Baptists, Presbyterians, and Methodists, grew in numbers, challenging the Anglican monopoly. Some dissenters faced legal discrimination before the Revolution and helped push for religious freedom.
Virginia was a national leader in religious liberty. In 1786, the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, drafted by Thomas Jefferson in 1777, was enacted, disestablishing the Anglican Church and guaranteeing freedom of conscience, a precursor to the First Amendment.
St. Luke’s Church–Smithfield
This is one of Virginia’s oldest surviving church buildings, with brick construction dating from the 17th century (ca. 1682). It’s a National Historic Landmark and interpreted as a museum of early colonial religious life. Groups of 10 or more must schedule a 45-minute tour in advance.
St. John’s Episcopal Church – Hampton
Active Episcopal parish with roots in the early 1600s, this church was rebuilt in 1728. It survived the Civil War when much of Hampton was destroyed. The church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Guided tours of the church’s interior and cemetery will be available from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Westover Church – Charles City
The predecessor of the existing Westover Church was constructed on Westover Plantation between 1630 and 1637. Around 1730, the construction of the present Westover Church was completed at its current site on Herring Creek, approximately 1.5 miles north of the plantation. Parish Hall is open by appointment.
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Historic St. John’s Church – Richmond
One of America’s most important historic sites, where, swayed by Patrick Henry’s powerful argument, the delegates made a decision that changed the course of history, lighting the spark of the War for Independence. There are daily Liberty or Death Tours and regularly scheduled Liberty or Death Reenactments. Groups need to schedule no more than 30 days in advance.
Blandford Church Museum and Cemetery – Petersburg
A rare American treasure whose 15 decorative stained-glass windows were designed and installed from 1901 to 1912 under the direction of Louis Comfort Tiffany of New York. Tours are available by appointment. There is an admission charge.
First Baptist Church – Williamsburg
In 2016, the First Baptist Church in Williamsburg marked its 240th anniversary. The church was established for free and enslaved African Americans by Reverend Moses, a free Black itinerant preacher, and later led by Gowan Pamphlet, an enslaved man who served as the pastor until his death. Tours are conducted Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. by appointment. Register online at the church’s website.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church – Norfolk
Built in 1739, St. Paul’s Church is Norfolk’s oldest building. It is the only structure to survive the British destruction of the city on New Year’s Day, 1776. A cannonball fired remains lodged in the southeastern wall. The church features a magnificent Tiffany stained-glass window. Guided tours are available upon request. Contact information is online.
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