The Anglican Church established “chapels of ease” throughout rural South Carolina in the 1700s for members to attend services close to home.

Fire, in this case natural, brought an end to this chapel on St. Helena Island, just off Beaufort.

Historical preservation organizations are fighting a battle against the natural elements and some human interference to preserve these buildings.

The massive live oaks on this property stand like guards over the building but may ultimately contribute to the chapel’s demise.