Our History
1947: Church Founded
St. Andrew’s was founded on the faith and the vision of Charles and Mary Eleanor Kidd when in 1946 they moved to Hartwell from Alabama. While attending Grace Episcopal in Anderson, S.C., they began to explore the notion of establishing a mission in Hartwell. An organizational meeting in 1947 was held at the Kidd’s home where the founding members decided to call the mission St. Andrew’s. Over the next several years, worship services were held in homes and various community clubs.
1961: First Building
In 1960 the small congregation decided to build their own church on a debt-free basis. The first corner stone was laid in December of 1960 by Rev. Frank Fortune, Charles Kidd, Paul Duke, and Eli Saliba. With the help of the many volunteers, extensive gifts, and special talents, the church was complete in 1961.
1987: Sanctuary Built
Development of Lake Hartwell grew the population of Episcopalians and by 1985 it was clear that a larger facility was needed. Again the congregation chose to go debt-free, and again our faith and prayers were rewarded. The new building was consecrated on November 30, 1987.
1988: Parish Hall Improvements
The following year the kitchen was enlarged, a new Sunday school room was added, and the old worship space converted to a parish hall.
2000: Steeple and Chimes Installed
2001: Landscaping and Parking Lot Completed
2007: Kitchen and Restrooms Remodeled
Clergy
The Rev. Bill Yon: Vicar 1955-1959
The Rev. Frank Fortune: Vicar 1960-1969
The Rev. Milton Coward: Vicar 1968-1969
The Rev. Herschel Atkinson: 1970-1997
The Rev. Jim Shumard: Rector 1998-2001
The Rev. Cass Daly: Rector 2003-2007
The Rev. Jim Clarke: Interim 2007-2008
The Rev. Lee Peyton: Rector 2008-2014
The Rev. Susan Loutitt-Hardaway: Priest-in-Charge
The Rev. Dr. Pat Miller: Part-time Priest-in-Charge 2019-2021
The Rev. Reid Hamilton: Priest-in-Charge 2021-present
