OUR HISTORY and Building

A Church with Deep Roots

Originally built in 1801 as a District Courthouse, the building began hosting Episcopal services exclusively by 1822. Over the centuries, St. Paul’s has served as:

  • A courthouse

  • A school

  • A hospital during the Civil War

  • A center for worship and fellowship

In 1975, the church was recognized as a historic landmark by the Prince William County, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the United States.

From humble beginnings to today’s vibrant parish life, St. Paul’s has remained a sacred place where generations have gathered in the name of Christ.

St. Paul’s is the oldest church in Prince William County, with a rich legacy of faith, service, and community.

A Sacred Space Full of History and Light

The sanctuary at St. Paul’s is more than just a historic building — it’s a place where God’s presence is felt through stained glass, quiet prayer, joyful worship, and sacred tradition.

Highlights include:

  • Tiffany-style stained glass windows, including the beloved Good Shepherd and central Christ windows

  • Handcrafted wooden pews and altar

  • A historic bell tower and steeple, visible from the heart of Haymarket

  • A peaceful columbarium behind the church

  • Renovations (completed in 2013) that preserved historical beauty while enhancing accessibility and comfort

We invite you to visit, worship, and experience the holy atmosphere for yourself.

200th Anniversary Highlights

Celebrating 200 Years of Faith and Fellowship (1822–2022)

In 2022, we joyfully celebrated the 200th anniversary of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.

Our community marked this historic milestone through a series of Sunday readings, printed bulletins, and photo retrospectives that told the story of our sacred space and the people who have shaped it.

Highlights included:

  1. Construction as a courthouse

  2. Consecration as a church

  3. Use as a Civil War hospital

  4. Addition of parish buildings and chapels

  5. Designation as a historic place

  6. Evolution as a dayspring congregation

  7. Our vibrant life today as a welcoming and growing community

We look back with gratitude and look forward with faith. Here’s to the next 200 years of worship, service, and joy.