Irvington Attractions

The first church constructed here, most likely a wood-framed structure, was built under the direction of John Carter and finished in 1670. In 1730, John's son, Robert "King" Carter, the most powerful planter in Virginia, proposed to build a new brick church which he financed. The Christ Church is a well-preserved example of Georgian architecture with three-feet thick brick walls, vaulted ceilings, and large compass-headed windows. It is the only church from colonial Virginia to retain its original, high-backed, box pews, and it is one of only two with its original, triple-decker pulpit. The ornate tomb of Robert Carter is located on the grounds.