St. John's Lutheran Church houses
Charleston's oldest Lutheran congregation. Built from 1816 to 1818, the design of the church is attributed to well-known Charleston architect and church member Frederick Wesner. Numerous other Charleston craftsman and builders contributed to its design and construction.
The church was damaged in the Charleston earthquake of 1886 and the 1891 hurricane, after which a recessed chancel with memorial windows was also added. The first Lutheran congregation had been formally organized in Charleston by 1752, and their first building dedicated by 1764. St. John's Lutheran Church is the mother church of Lutherans in South Carolina. The church celebrated its 250th anniversary in 1992.