Sapony Episcopal Church and Cemetery

Dinwiddie County, Virginia

 

Photos contributed by Carol Morrison — 2006

 

Established between 1725 and 1726, Sapony Episcopal Church is one of Virginia's oldest surviving colonial churches. Located just south of Sappony Creek near McKenney, this modest one-story, three-bay frame structure has served as a spiritual anchor for the local community for nearly three centuries.

The church underwent renovations in the 19th century, including the addition of a vestry room and repairs following a partial structural collapse in 1869. Much of the original colonial craftsmanship remains, including paneled wainscoting, sections of original pews, and a rare trestle communion table.

From 1763 to 1801, the church was led by the Rev. Devereux Jarrett, a prominent preacher influenced by the Great Awakening. His revivalist ministry and writings—most notably A Brief Narrative of the Revival of Religion in Virginia (1778)—left a lasting impact. He and his wife are buried beneath the church floor.

Adjacent to the church lies the Sapony Cemetery, the final resting place for generations of parishioners. The earliest known burial beneath the church occurred in 1800, reflecting the site's long-standing importance to the community.

In recognition of its architectural and historical significance, Sapony Episcopal Church was added to the Virginia Landmarks Register in 1975 and the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. The church is also commemorated with a Virginia historical highway marker (S-40), located at the intersection of Shippings Road (Route 709) and McKenney Highway (Route 40), highlighting its colonial origins and lasting community importance.

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