SOCASTEE, S.C. (WBTW) — Members of Socastee United Methodist Church are asking for the community’s help in restoring its sanctuary that dates back to 1875.
The sanctuary is a Horry County historical landmark and is one of the oldest buildings in Socastee. The building has stood for almost 150 years.
In January, some church members voted to demolish it and salvage some items because they didn’t have enough money to restore it.
After hearing from other church members, they’ve decided to restore it but need the community’s help.
“A decision as a chairperson standing in front of the congregation sharing that news with them was not something we wanted to do,” Fred Harris said. Harris is the church’s building committee chairperson overseeing the restoration.
The old sanctuary has stood through many Sunday school classes, church services and weddings. Fast forward almost 150 years, the sanctuary closed in August 2023 because of issues with the floors, roof, and foundation.
Harris said they’re glad they made the decision to restore the sanctuary instead of demolishing it but face a long road ahead.