Christ Church

In the heart of Alexandria, Virginia, nestled at the corner of North Washington and Cameron Streets, stands a beacon of history and faith: Christ Church. This Episcopal church, with its stately brick facade and elegant white steeple, is not just a place of worship but a testament to the rich tapestry of American history and the enduring spirit of its community.

The Architectural Grandeur

Designed by Colonel James Wren, a descendant of the famed Sir Christopher Wren, Christ Church is a masterpiece of Georgian architecture. The two-story brick structure, measuring approximately 60 feet by 50 feet, is adorned with stone quoins sourced from the nearby Aquia quarry. The simple yet majestic hipped roof and the later additions of the galleries, bell tower, and porch around 1785 and 1815, add to its timeless charm. The church’s exterior, with its symmetrical design and classic lines, exudes a sense of serenity and strength, inviting visitors to step inside and explore its storied past.

A Historical Haven

Christ Church was established in 1765 as the main church of Fairfax Parish, part of the Church of England. The vestry, eager to create a place of worship for the burgeoning community, raised 31,186 pounds of Oronoco tobacco to finance its construction. Despite initial delays, the church was completed in 1773 under the supervision of John Carlyle, who took over from the original overseer, James Parsons.

During the Revolutionary War, Christ Church became a hub of pro-revolutionary activity. Its rector, David Griffith, was a fervent advocate for independence, and the church’s congregation included notable figures such as George Washington and Henry Lee. The church’s survival through the disestablishment of the Church of England as the state church of Virginia is a testament to the dedication and support of its parishioners.

Preserving the Past

Unlike many colonial churches in Virginia, Christ Church’s interior was spared the ravages of the Civil War. Although occupied by Union troops, the church’s structure remained intact, though it did lose most of its tombstones and silver during the conflict. In the post-war years, the church continued to serve the community, establishing Meade Memorial Chapel as a mission church in 1869.

The church’s interior, with its whitewashed walls and elegant woodwork, retains much of its original charm. The box pews were converted to the slips in use today in the mid-19th century, and the original two-tier pulpit was replaced by the current wine-glass pulpit. The chancel is adorned with hand-lettered plaques displaying the Decalogue, the Lord’s Prayer, the Apostles’ Creed, and the Golden Rule, all painted by James Wren. The only remaining hand-carved hymnal rack can be found in the Lee pew, a silent witness to the church’s storied past.

A Sanctuary of Remembrance

The churchyard of Christ Church is a place of quiet reflection and remembrance. Among the burials is a mass grave of 34 Confederate prisoners of war who died in local hospitals during the Civil War, commemorated by a memorial stone. The churchyard also holds the graves of Charles Simms and Philip Marsteller, two of George Washington’s pallbearers, as well as Anne Warren, a world-famous English actress, and William Ramsay, known as the Romulus of Alexandria.

Modern Reflections

In 2017, Christ Church made a significant decision to move plaques commemorating George Washington and Robert E. Lee from the sanctuary to a more suitable public viewing space on the church grounds. This move was made to ensure that the church remains a welcoming space for all and to avoid any distractions during worship. This decision reflects the church’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.

A Living Landmark

Today, Christ Church continues to be a vibrant part of Alexandria’s community, offering regular services and special events. Its historical significance was recognized in 1970 when it was declared a National Historic Landmark. Visitors to Christ Church can not only admire its architectural beauty and historical artifacts but also feel the enduring spirit of a community that has weathered the storms of history and emerged stronger for it.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to Christ Church in Alexandria is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the past while standing firmly in the present. It is a place where history and faith intertwine, creating a rich tapestry that continues to inspire and uplift all who enter its doors.