Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, Columbia

Trinity Episcopal Cathedral holds the distinction of being the first Episcopal church and the oldest surviving sanctuary in Columbia. This Gothic Revival church, modeled after the medieval York Minster in York, England, was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places on February 24, 1971. Situated on the east side of Sumter Street, between Gervais and Senate Streets, it stands directly east of the South Carolina State House, making it a prominent landmark in the city's historic district.

The church was designed by Edward Brickell White, who employed a Gothic Revival style to create a structure reminiscent of York Minster. The cornerstone was laid on November 26, 1845, by the rector, Peter Shand. Although originally intended to have a cruciform design, only the nave and twin towers were constructed. These towers, each adorned with eight pinnacles topped with a fleur-de-lis, add to the church's medieval aesthetic. The brick structure was plastered with buff stucco, and both the towers and walls feature shouldered buttresses. The nave, distinguished by its clerestory—the only one in a Columbia church—is supported by exposed wooden beams. The church was consecrated by Bishop Gadsden on February 14, 1857.

Throughout its history, Trinity Episcopal Cathedral has been marked by the planting of live oak trees in its churchyard, symbolizing different milestones in the Parish’s history. The first tree, known as the Sire Oak, was planted in 1814 after the completion of the initial church building. The second tree was planted in 1900, celebrating the completion of the current structure, and the third tree was planted in 1925, marking the completion of the Parish House. These oaks, along with the wrought iron fence surrounding the churchyard, contribute to the historic and serene ambiance of the cathedral grounds.