ELIZABETHTOWN — Old Trinity Methodist Church in downtown Elizabethtown has seen plenty of history since it first opened its doors.
Thirteen years before the Civil War, in 1848, the church began serving its new congregation. And for the next 108 years, the historic church served as a focal point of the Elizabethtown community and beyond — until the current building was constructed and opened in 1955 at the current location on West Broad Street next to Elizabethtown Town Hall.
On Thursday, the church will host a free community chicken bog dinner complete with entertainment starting at 6 p.m. The event will be held in the Trinity United Methodist Church Activity Building, and will be a celebration of the history and significance of Old Trinity Methodist Church.
“Old Trinity is not just a Methodist church – it is a community church rich in local history,” said church member Carl deAndrade. “So, the entire community is invited to this event. Come enjoy a good meal, good music, and learn about the history of Elizabethtown’s National Historic Site.”
Though the event is free and open to the public, donations will be greatly appreciated — and all contributions will be put toward much-needed repairs at the Old Trinity Methodist Church.
Located at East Broad and Lower streets, the historic church is a two-story, rectangular, frame Federal-style church. It is surrounded on three sides by the church cemetery that holds headstones bearing the names of many early Elizabethtown settlers who attended church there in its early days.
“Old Trinity Methodist Church continues to be a significant part of Trinity United Methodist Church, as well as a part of the community and surrounding areas,” deAndrade said. “Due to its history and uniqueness, it is a National Historic Site and also among North Carolina’s Registry of historical sites.
“The old church continues to provide services for the entire community, such as sunrise service Easter Sunday, noon services during Lent and other special events,” he added. “It is also available for weddings and funerals.”
W. Curt Vincent can be reached by calling 910-862-4163.
