In 1751 St. Michael’s Parish was created and the cornerstone laid for the new church the next year opening in 1761. The church is the oldest in Charleston and has remained essentially unchanged over the years. The 18th century English clock and ring of bells is thought to be the oldest functioning colonial period tower clock in the country. Church archives record that President George Washington worshipped in the church during his tour of the country in 1791.

Buried in the cemetery are many famous Lowcountry members of the congregation that include General Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, hero of the Rev War, signer of the Constitution; John Rutledge, signer of the Constitution and Chief Justice of the Supreme Court; and James Petigru, a famous Unionist.