Their Majesties Chappell of St. Peter's, the oldest Anglican church in America
St. Peter's Church is a historic Anglican church located on the island of St. George in Bermuda. It was built in the 17th century and is considered one of the oldest buildings on the island, as well as one of the oldest churches in the British colonies in America.
This beautiful church is an impressive example of early Gothic architecture. Its construction dates back to 1620, being originally built as a chapel of the fort of Saint George and a place of worship for the British soldiers and their families who were on the island.
It is also known for its impressive interior, with high ceilings and exposed beams made of hand-carved cedar wood. The ceiling beams resemble the ribs of a ship's hull, and on its walls are numerous memorial plaques honoring prominent Bermudians who have been buried there.
The church retains the original 17th century pulpit, made of cedar wood, as well as the dole cupboard, which is also of the same period and has been beautifully restored. Of course, it was also made of cedar.
The beautiful St. George's Church is the oldest surviving Anglican church in continuous use outside the British Isles and is a major tourist attraction on the island.
Interior of the chapel in cedar wood.
Bermuda was once covered with forests of endemic cedar trees, prized for the construction of buildings, ships and furniture. However, around the 1950s, a mealybug infestation introduced to the island accidentally wiped out ninety-five percent of the island's trees.
The present organ is a two-manual 900 Casavant pipe organ from Canada, installed in 1984, which replaced the old 19th century organ. In addition, in the sacristy there is a magnificent display of sacred silver, the oldest piece of which is a 1625 Communion cup. Also on display is a complete Communion set from the late 17th century sent by King William and Queen Mary of England, as well as several 17th century bibles.
Over the centuries, the church has been restored several times, maintaining its original 17th century appearance. On March 18, 2012, the Queen bestowed upon St. Peter's the title of "Their Majesties' Chapel," in honor of the church's 400th anniversary. It is, together with the historic center of St. George and related fortifications, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.
This beautiful church has stood the test of time, being an important historical landmark in Bermuda and an active place of worship for the local community for centuries. With its impressive interior and rich history, it is a prime tourist attraction on the island in conjunction with the fortifications of St. George and the old urban settlement.
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