First Church Building was 18 x 24 ft. |
|
Organized under the pastorate of the Rev. Joseph Nicholson, the little congregation decided in 1879 that it was necessary to build a church. Mr. Harper McCaughan donated a tract of land (100 ft by 600 ft). A large amount of cash ($329 of $502 total cost) was a gift from Mr. Henry Ware, a trustee of the Hands-borough — Bay St. Louis Circuit of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. The church built a small 18 x 24 ft. building. The new church was dedicated in October 1880 with Rev. Joseph McLaurin. Later, in 1904, the original structure was moved to its present site at the SE corner of Pine Street and St. Charles Avenue and became a residence (229 Pine Street). It has been in continuous use since 1880.
In October 1880, the church was dedicated. As the congregation grew, an addition was built on, giving the church a T shape, so it was not much wonder that strangers would inquire as to the purpose of the building. A revival in 1904 nearly doubled the membership. That same year, under the pastorate of Reverend James Sells, a new church was built to accommodate the growing membership. |