Christ Church Frederica | Brunswick

Christ Church Frederica, located on St. Simons Island, Georgia, is one of the oldest and most historically significant Episcopal churches in the state and the southeastern United States. Established in 1736, the church has played a vital role in the spiritual, cultural, and social life of the island for nearly three centuries, making it a key landmark reflecting both colonial history and continuing religious traditions.

Historical Background

The origins of Christ Church Frederica are closely tied to the early settlement of St. Simons Island. In February 1736, General James Oglethorpe founded the town of Frederica as part of the Georgia colony’s efforts to establish a stronghold against Spanish Florida and protect the British colony. Accompanying Oglethorpe was Reverend Charles Wesley, a priest of the Church of England and brother of John Wesley, the founder of Methodism. Charles Wesley served as chaplain and secretary during the settlement’s early days and conducted the first Anglican services on the island in a simple tabby (concrete-like) structure within Fort Frederica.

After Charles Wesley left in July 1736, John Wesley—then the rector of Christ Church in Savannah—frequently visited Frederica to minister to the settlers and helped nurture the fledgling congregation. These early religious services laid the foundation for what would become Christ Church Frederica, officially incorporated as a parish by the Georgia State Legislature in 1808.

The first permanent church building was constructed in 1820, serving as the spiritual home for the island’s Anglican (later Episcopal) community. However, this original structure was destroyed during the Civil War in 1862, when many buildings on the island suffered damage or were abandoned during the conflict. During the Reconstruction period, church services were held in private homes and temporary locations while plans were made for a new church building.

In 1884, the current church was constructed as a memorial to Ellen Dodge, the wife of Anson Greene Phelps Dodge Jr., who generously funded the building project. The church was consecrated in 1886 and has remained in continuous use ever since.

Architectural Significance

Christ Church Frederica is renowned for its distinctive Carpenter Gothic architectural style, which was popular for ecclesiastical buildings in the late 19th century. The church’s design is evocative of an inverted ship’s hull, symbolizing the "ship of faith" and linking the structure to the maritime culture of the coastal region.

Construction Materials: The church is built primarily of natural heart pine wood, which remains unstained and unpainted to showcase the craftsmanship of local shipbuilders who constructed the building. This raw wood finish gives the interior a warm, rustic aesthetic that connects visitors to the island’s coastal heritage.

Interior Design: The interior features a cruciform floor plan and a vaulted Gothic trussed roof, with heavy wooden beams crossing overhead. The craftsmanship reflects both the religious symbolism and the nautical influences common to coastal Georgia.

Stained Glass Windows: The church’s sanctuary is illuminated by beautiful stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of Christ, as well as local historical themes. These windows add color and spiritual narrative to the worship space, enhancing the contemplative atmosphere.

Historic Artifacts: Some elements from the original 1820 church were preserved and incorporated into the current building, such as parts of the altar, pews, and the base of the credence table. These artifacts serve as tangible links to the church’s early history.

Christ Church Cemetery

Adjacent to the church is the historic Christ Church Cemetery, which is among the oldest cemeteries in Georgia. The cemetery dates back to at least 1803 and contains the graves of many early settlers of St. Simons Island, former rectors of the parish, and veterans of multiple American wars, including the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.

Notably, the cemetery is the final resting place of Lucian Lamar Knight, Georgia’s first official state historian. The cemetery’s peaceful grounds, shaded by ancient live oaks and draped with Spanish moss, offer visitors a reflective space rich with history and natural beauty.

Worship and Community Life

Christ Church Frederica remains an active Episcopal parish, continuing its tradition of worship and community service:

The church holds regular services on Saturdays and Sundays, with a variety of liturgical styles including the traditional 1928 Book of Common Prayer and contemporary rites.

The parish offers a range of programs for spiritual growth, education, and outreach, serving both the local community and visitors.

Special services and events often take place on historic holidays and feast days, connecting congregants to centuries-old traditions.

Visitor Information

Christ Church Frederica welcomes visitors interested in its history, architecture, and spiritual heritage. The church offers guided tours Tuesday through Sunday from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, allowing guests to explore the sanctuary, learn about the church’s rich past, and appreciate its architectural beauty. The cemetery is open daily from sunrise to sunset for quiet reflection and historical exploration.

The church is located at 6329 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island, Georgia, with easy access and parking available nearby.

Significance and Legacy

Christ Church Frederica stands as a remarkable testament to the enduring faith and historical resilience of St. Simons Island. It embodies the island’s colonial beginnings, its transformation through war and peace, and its ongoing role as a spiritual center. The church’s unique architecture, storied history, and serene environment make it a profound cultural landmark and a meaningful destination for anyone interested in American religious history, coastal heritage, or architectural artistry.

In summary, Christ Church Frederica offers a deep connection to the past alongside a living tradition of worship, creating a space where history and faith intertwine amidst the natural beauty of Georgia’s Golden Isles.