Photo by Jackie Perrone Wilson Farrell, project coordinator for the restoration of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral. She's a beautiful lady, shapely and strong, a prominent citizen much admired in the community. But her beauty has faded, the years have taken their toll, and now it seems a tummy- tuck here and an eyelid- lift there will no longer suffice. What's needed is a complete makeover at the hands of experts to restore the magnificence of a South Carolina icon.

Trinity Episcopal Cathedral has played a significant role in South Carolina throughout most of its history. Now, pushing 200, she's scheduled for a facelift and then some.

That's exactly what the planners at Trinity have in mind. Think two and a half years, and up to $6 million. The price tag reflects the extent of this project's ambition, and all involved think it will be worth every bit of effort and cost.

Mary Belser, president of the Trinity Foundation, is leading fundraising and information efforts for the restoration project.

"Trinity Episcopal has been an important feature of the Columbia skyline since 1812," she says. "The first Trinity was a small wooden structure in this block at Gervais and Sumter streets, dedicated in 1814. Thirty years later, the present building was consecrated, in 1847. It was modeled after York Cathedral in England (minus the transepts)."

Now, centuries later, planning for renovations has begun. Some leaks became evident, air conditioning developed a habit of breaking down, and peeling paint was seen. It became obvious these issues and many more would need attention if the church is to last another 200 years.

Inside and out, paint and plaster and stucco are to be restored after the ravages of water damage have been repaired. The heating and air conditioning system has long outlived its useful life and is to be replaced totally. The electrical and plumbing systems are in for upgrading. Improvements will be made at the Parish Hall to include flooring, lighting, and paint.

Trinity's classical architecture includes some significant features such as metal spire caps, and a lime- based stucco on exterior walls. These are to be repaired and replaced as necessary, along with wooden louvers in front façade towers, which are believed to be original in the 151- year- old building.

A highly specialized approach will be needed to repair and restore some of the priceless stained glass windows. The front steps and a ramp for disabled visitors are in the works.

Wilson Farrell is project coordinator for the restoration. John Bull leads a group of Trinity volunteers who serve as docents for the historic building. They provide tours and information for the many visitors. Last year more than 1,000 visitors were registered, from 37 states and 14 foreign countries.

Bull says, "When Sherman's army came through Columbia, the story is he believed it to be a Roman Catholic church and because his wife was a Roman Catholic, this building was spared. It has continued its service to Episcopalians and all of the community ever since."