In 1833, Rev. Jonas Westerland
was appointed to Harrisonburg. In those early days circuit riders
preached under brush arbors and in homes. The current Harrisonburg
church was built in 1853 or 1854. The land on which it stands was
donated to the church on October 5, 1858 by Joseph Sargent. It faced
Pine (or Church) Street.
For many years, the second story
of the church was used for the Harrisonburg Masonic Lodge. The structure
was also used as a school.
By 1895, the membership had
increased to 184.
Land was purchased on July 5,
1907 from the Holloman heirs. A parsonage was built on the site,
which was across the street from the current church’s location.
After sharing a minister for
three decades (since 1926), Rev. F.P. Corie moved into the parsonage in
1957. Rev. Corie led the church in renovating the church and parsonage.
Sunday School rooms were added to the back of the church.
In 1972, renovations to the
church included refinishing the sanctuary floor and pews and adding carpeting
to the pulpit area and aisle. A new organ and furnishings were added
the following year.
The old church still stands
to this day. Cannonball holes can be found in its walls. Old
square-headed nails still hold it together. And the original church
bell still chimes.
Source: The History of Methodism in Harrisonburg, Louisiana,
Gene Smith Boyd |
