St Luke’s Church

Smithfield VA

St. Luke’s Church, aka Historic St. Luke’s Church, aka the Old Brick Church. It was built in either 1632 or 1685-1687. It is the oldest church building in Virginia. The exterior of the building is mainly original brick, and the interior is not original. There have been several restorations over the years. The largest restoration effort was completed in the 1950s.

Architecturally, this is a very rare example of Artisan Mannerism Architecture from 17th-century Virginia. There are Romanesque, Gothic, and Jacobean influences in the design. No known architect or original architectural renderings are associated with its design. Instead, construction is believed to have been undertaken by skilled artisans reflecting on examples from England.
Porthole view of the church cemetery.
Looking to the front of the church.
These stained glass panels honor several of the pastors of the church, as well as George Washington and Robert E. Lee.
Rear of the sanctuary.
Grave of Joseph Bridger, who was a military and political figure in colonial Virginia. He was a supporter of Governor William Berkeley during Bacon’s Rebellion. He died in 1686.

Also, the grave of Anne Randall, who died in 1696.
English Chamber Organ from the 1630s.