St. John's Episcopal Church, Richmond (must see)

Saint John's Episcopal Church, situated on East Broad Street in Richmond, holds a significant place in American history. It stands as the oldest church in Richmond, established by Colonel Richard Randolph in 1741, the son of William Randolph. This church played a foundational role in shaping the Church Hill district, named after it.

Saint John's is historically recognized for its pivotal role during the American Revolutionary War period. It was the venue for two critical conventions leading up to the war. Most notably, it was here that Patrick Henry delivered his impassioned "Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death" speech during the Second Virginia Convention, a moment that has etched the church into the national memory.

The church's roots trace back to Henrico Parish Church, originally part of Sir Thomas Dale’s innovative settlement at Henricus. Today, Saint John's not only serves as an active house of worship with a vibrant congregation and ongoing ministry but also as a bridge to the past, providing educational tours. These tours start in the churchyard, home to the graves of many notable figures such as George Wythe, the first American law professor and a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and Elizabeth Arnold Poe, the mother of famed writer Edgar Allan Poe.

Visitors can explore the churchyard's tombstones, which include designs ranging from the archaic to the modern, before moving inside the church. Inside, they receive detailed narratives of the events that shaped the nation during its revolutionary beginnings. The church also houses a small souvenir shop, adding a personal touch for those who wish to take a piece of history home with them. Saint John's continues to be a beacon of historical and cultural significance in Richmond.