Parish History

To experience more parish history and hands-on activities for all ages, visit the Westmoreland Parish Museum, located directly behind the church building. 

St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Oak Grove, is located in the Northern Neck of Virginia, Westmoreland County, known as the "cradle of the nation". Originally named Appomattox, the Washington Parish was established in 1653 by early settlers to the Virginia colonies. The original sanctuary building was constructed between 1848–1849 in a Gothic Revival style brick. A vestry room, recept, and the single round Agnus Dei stained glass window were installed in 1860. The exposed cross-beamed ceiling and raised roof were added in 1883.

A fire in December 2023 destroyed the main church building including the original stained glass windows and Henry Erben organ. and damaged the outer buildings, the colonial design of the sanctuary had been beautifully maintained while adding conveniences such as air conditioning and a sound system. Modern expansion over the years includes a Parish Hall, Sunday School and offices.

St. Peter's was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2004.

Several children and grandchildren of early church members were among the nation's first leaders:

• Two sons of Colonel Thomas Lee,  Richard Henry Lee and Francis Lightfoot Lee, signed the Declaration of Independence

• Colonel John Washington, one of the earliest settlers in the region, became great-grandfather to George Washington, first President of the United States

• Patrick Andrew Monroe became great-great grandfather to President James Monroe

• Colonel Thomas Marshall was father to John Marshall, the fourth Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court.