125 Pressley Street
City Directories and History: The Wesley Methodist church was built in 1869 and brick veneered in 1980. Wesley United Methodist Church – (Pressley Street) built between 1870-1877. One story. Frame with pine siding, three bay portico. Three doors with pediments characterize entrance way. Windows on structure surmounted by pediments. Gable roof with belfry. Front gable end characterized by oculus and bracketed barge board. Vestry room added to rear of structure in 20th Century.
This style was promoted as an appropriate design for rural settings, with its complex and irregular shapes and forms fitting well into the natural landscape. Thus, the Gothic Revival style was often chosen for country homes and houses in rural or small town settings. Penn Arch. Field Guide – Website
Summerville originated as a pineland summer refuge for low country planters. Originally the
NR File Photo / SC Dept. of Archives and History
streets were laid out without any plan and winding roads still characterize the oldest section of town. This “old town” lies in the southwestern portion of the historic district and contains about two thirds of the land and half the structures of the district. The South Carolina Canal and Railroad Company laid out the more regular “new town” in 1832. Streets run parallel and at right angles to the track laid in 1830-1831. The “old town” and that portion of the “new town” were incorporated into the village of Summerville in 1847. Following the Civil War, wealthy northerners began wintering there. The town’s designation in 1887 as a health spot gave it an impetus as a resort, which was not lost until the Depression of the 1930s. There are approximately seven hundred structures within the nominated area; about 70% predate World War I. Uniting the different building styles of the town is a common sensitivity to the natural setting and to the local landscaping traditions reflected in street scapes, parks and gardens. Raised cottages, Greek Revival influenced, and Victorian/Queen Anne and other turn of the century structures are found throughout. Antebellum buildings are principally located in the southern and western areas. Churches are located in the center of the district, and the commercial buildings—most dating from around 1900—are located on either side of the town square in front of the present town hall, which faces the railroad. Additionally, Summerville has been the center for azalea culture and there is a variety of azaleas popularly named “The Pride of Summerville.” Listed in the National Register May 19, 1976. The building measures: 29 – 82 feet.
View a map showing the boundaries of the Summerville Historic District. View the complete text of the nomination form for this National Register property.
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