EVHS seeks funds to continue restoration of historic church

Members of Euharlee Valley Historical Society ( EVHS) and other volunteers continue efforts to restore and preserve old Van Wert Methodist Church, which was built in 1857.

It is identified as one of the oldest structures in Polk County and records indicate Rev. William Wesley Simpson built it. The building survived damage from the Civil War and the cemetery is the final resting place for casualties of that war.

Since 2005, President Greg Gray and the dedicated volunteers working with him have earned recognition for their work to preserve the church and cemetery.

One resident wrote, “They ( EVHS) saved the neglected, dilapidated and decaying structure from extinction . . .. President Greg Gray, secretary Nancy Feek and other members are drawn together for a common goal. Each seems to share a love for the old church and are committed to its restoration . . . the late Jean Latrello, a native of Illinois, also championed the cause . . .”

The Van Wert Church and adjoining cemetery are historical gems. The age of the structure and the fact that it was the center of religious and social life for early settlers to this area make it worthy of saving. Add to that history the church’s links to the Rev. Samuel Porter Jones and to small Civil War skirmishes nearby and the interest broadens.

Noted is the fact that worshippers gathering each Sunday morning at the Rockmart First United Methodist Church, the Rockmart Presbyterian Church, the Rockmart Church of God and Baptist churches, First Baptist, Calvary, Fairview and Van Wert have reason to point with pride to the old Van Wert Church. Each of these congregations shares a common history with the church. A direct link exists for the First United Methodist Church since it evolved from the Van Wert Methodist Church, while the other congregations used the facility as an early meeting place prior to their permanent structure being built.

During a recent meeting of Euharlee Valley Historical Society, members announced: “we need your help in spreading the word. There is a Go Fund Me page set up to help raise funds at https:// www. gofundme. com/ 2m4byxra or you can send donations directly to: EVHS, PO Box 364, Rockmart, Ga. 30153.

The group was given the first look at a new publication dedicated to preservation of the old church. Hopes are that it will bring in additional revenue.

They discussed the need to involve representatives from local and state historical preservation departments.

The idea is to spark new interest for funding the restoration work, including the cemetery that still has standing markets from the days Welsh miners were helping provide building material for local business and residential growth.

Focus will be given to contacting and inviting a representative from regional agencies that can provide an individual with expertise in preservation of the building and steps the group can take for assistance.

Other topics discussed included the use of the church as a wedding venue, the Welch tea in Rome on October 1 and the annual memorial service on October 8.