History

In 1809, the Bethany Church was organized out of the vision and need of a church in the community. Ruben Blalock gave the land on which the first church was built. The church was a one-room building constructed of logs. Mr. Blalock was probably a member of persimmon Creek Church (now Zoar UMC). His burial site is thought to be on or near the site of the original church. Mr. Blalock and Mr. Benjamin Perry were instrumental in the building of the original church and both church and land were given as free will offering.

In this early history travel limited the church to one service per month. Between 1827-1828, the church was formally dedicated to the Methodist circuit in Edgefield County. It was at this time the name Bethany was given to the church. The original log building was used until 1899, at which time a new building was begun and completed in 1900. This building, with classroom additions, continues in use today. In 1960-61, a new educational building was built, including five classrooms an a fellowship hall. At this time, the sanctuary was bricked and stained glass windows were installed. In 1974, Bethany was able to "go station," and a parsonage was completed in 1975. Within 23 months the debt was retired. In December 1979, the steeple was erected and was later replaced with a new one in 1991. In the summer of 1999, the addition to the fellowship hall was completed and put in memory of Maude Swindler-Height. The summer of 2005 a playground was put in and dedicated to the children of the church.

Since 1788, forty or more pastors have served Bethany or the Saluda area as either circuit riders or appointed pastors! Many have gone own to become great evangelists, District Superintendents, and missional strategists! Many of our own members have also become ministers in the South Carolina United Methodist Conference! We hope you will want to be part of our legacy!