Saint Peter’s Catholic Church, Beaufort

Saint Peter’s Catholic Church has deep historical roots dating back to the 16th century with early Spanish missions. The church was established in 1846, making it the ninth oldest in the Diocese of Charleston, thanks to Michael O’Connor, an Irish immigrant, who deeded the original building to the diocese. Over the years, the church played significant roles, including serving as a school during the Civil War and expanding in response to community and military needs.

Throughout the 20th century, the parish evolved, expanding facilities and outreach, including the addition of the Pius X Parish Center in 1959 and the Holy Cross Mission in 1967. In the 1980s, a new parish campus was established on Lady’s Island due to growing membership. The current church building, seating 1,200, was consecrated in 2006. A full restoration of the original historic church was completed in 2012, and it now hosts weekday Masses, small weddings, funerals, and tours.